Bus drivers in Vermont’s largest county will continue walking the picket lines after a negotiating session with the Chittenden County Transportation Authority over the weekend was unsuccessful.
Speaking at a Monday news conference, leaders of the bus driver's union say CCTA did not respond to a union offer during a Saturday negotiating session. Union leader Rob Slingerland says management is telling the public half truths and stonewalling. "It's just another tactic to try and wear us down."
CCTA general manager Bill Watterson says there are four main issues the two parties are not agreeing on: wages, disciplinary action from anonymous tips, part-time drivers, and split-shifts. "CCTA is very committed to doing all that is possible to restore negotiations and end the strike."
The strike began March 17 and it has affected nearly 10,000 passengers.
The drivers say money is not an issue, but rather respect and safe work conditions.
The Associated Press contributed to this report. All Rights Reserved.