Following the Bus Drivers’ Union’s (UTA) call for an indefinite strike, the national government announced it will fine long distance bus companies that refuse to offer services. The strike, set in place at midnight last night, has left hundreds of passengers stranded and long distance coach services at a halt at Retiro’s bus terminal.
Alejandro Rusconi, deputy manager of the National Commission for the Regulation of Transport (CNRT), made the announcement, saying the coach companies are mandated to conduct their services.
UTA Press Secretary Mario Caligari announced the strike following failed wage negotiations. Workers requested a wage increase of 24%.
There are an estimated 25,000 bus drivers participating in the strike, with up to 120 departments affected thus far.
Rusconi said companies face a fine of at least $10,000 should they continue to halt services. He also said bus companies need to return the full ticket price or reschedule tickets for those passengers affected.
Rusconi spoke to the reports of mistreatment in Retiro last night, as the heat was turned off and bathrooms closed. The ticket booths were shut down because staff members were involved in the strike, too. Rusconi said the operator of Retiro will face penalties.
In his press conference today, Florencio Randazzo commented on the strike, saying it’s “a real shame” and that Carlos Tomada, the Minister of Labour, is currently working on negotiations with the companies and unions.
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