Hamilton wastewater workers stage info picket, causing bus delays

Hamilton buses were delayed for up to two hours early Thursday morning due to picketing outside the Hamilton Mountain Transit Terminal.

Workers from Hamilton’s wastewater treatment plant were there on what they called an “information picket,” speaking with drivers as they left the terminal.

“We had individuals handing out flyers and engage with drivers if they wanted to talk more about the strike, and then they were free to go on a green light,” said Greg Hoath, the business manager at the International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE) Local 772.

It’s been two weeks and no deal has been reached between the 55 workers represented by the IUOE Local 772 and the City of Hamilton.

According to the union representing the workers at Hamilton’s wastewater management plant, their request remains the same.

“We’re simply requesting internal parity with other city workers in comparable positions,” said Hoath.

“Picketing their facility is not having any effect and I guess that’s why they are targeting other facilities across the city,” said Eric Tuck, the president of Amalgamated Transit Union Local 107.

Until Thursday, demonstrations have primarily been outside the Woodward Avenue Wastewater Treatment Plant.

When an information picket took place at the entrance to the Hamilton Mountain Transit Terminal, Tuck – the president of the union representing bus drivers – said he understood and sympathized with their cause, but recognizes the chaos it caused for the morning commute.

“Unfortunately, it did have an impact on service and our buses were leaving here, anywhere from an hour to two hours late,” said Tuck.

READ MORE: Delayed Buses: Striking water workers reportedly blocking Mountain bus depot

Departures from the terminal on Upper James flowed unimpeded by picketers by 10:30 a.m. and services resumed as per usual.

Hoath said they went back to the bargaining table with the city Monday and claims the city had no offer to make.

“We witnessed city council yesterday spend in 30 seconds about a $1.5 million on pet projects, but they don’t have $300,000 to spend to settle this strike,” said Hoath.

CHCH News had requested an interview or response from the City of Hamilton but did not receive a response.

No scheduled talks are in place regarding an end to the strike.

WATCH MORE: City assures residents water is safe amid ongoing worker strike