Lundy disappointed by bus drivers action, calls for return to negotiations

Transport Minister Leon Lundy has expressed disappointment over a sick-out by bus drivers that disrupted public transportation across New Providence this morning, leaving hundreds of commuters, including schoolchildren, stranded at bus stops.

The action comes as the country hosts King Charles III on the second day of his official visit to The Bahamas, adding to the transportation challenges facing residents.

In a statement issued Wednesday, Lundy said the disruption was particularly disappointing given the number of Bahamians who depend on public buses to get to work, school and carry out their daily responsibilities.

However, the minister maintained that the government had not ignored the concerns raised by bus owners and drivers, revealing that he had been in official communication with Harrison Moxey, president of the United Public Transportation Company (UPTC), who was tasked with representing the interests of both groups.

Lundy said a proposal had already been submitted to the Ministry of Transport and a meeting had been scheduled for Friday at 1pm to discuss the industry's concerns.

“With that process already underway, today's industrial action is particularly disappointing and does little to support the spirit of good-faith negotiations that we believe is necessary to reach a resolution,” he said.

Bus operators had previously threatened to withdraw their services over escalating diesel prices last month but agreed to hold off on industrial action following a meeting with Lundy, who pledged to take steps to address their concerns.

The minister said he appreciated that operators had issues they wanted resolved and insisted that the government remained willing to listen and work towards practical solutions.

However, he said the disruption was also affecting thousands of Bahamians who rely on public transportation.

Lundy said he was reaching out directly to the leadership of the relevant associations and unions in an effort to secure an immediate resolution.

“Our priority is to restore normal public transportation services as quickly as possible while continuing meaningful discussions to address the concerns of the industry,” he said.

He urged all parties to return to the negotiating table in good faith, warning that commuters should not have to bear the burden while discussions continue.