GGCA says formal request has been submitted for collective bargaining rights for bus drivers

The Gibraltar General & Clerical Association union has confirmed to GBC that all Gibraltar Bus Company staff have joined their union, and it has therefore submitted a formal request for collective bargaining rights.

The GGCA has told GBC that bus company members have requested a meeting this week to discuss a number of ongoing issues. It claims they have expressed dissatisfaction with their previous representation, though the union says it does not believe it is their place to go into detail on that matter. The recent public sector pay rise was also raised, and members confirmed they were satisfied with the outcome.

The GGCA says it has been clear that it cannot make promises or give guarantees, but rather offer full representation and accessibility, with the added benefit of being based in Gibraltar. It says it has also come as a very pleasant surprise that all bus company members have now collectively joined the GGCA.

President, Darren Cerisola, says his commitment is to ensure that the GGCA always acts with honesty and transparency. He told GBC, "We may not always tell members what they want to hear, but we will guide and support them towards what they truly need, rather than what may be unrealistic or unattainable".

He adds, it is the duty of the GGCA to support members in pursuing realistic and achievable goals, while avoiding the creation of false expectations that could lead to disappointment and strained relationships with stakeholders.

Finally, Mr Cerisola says he recognises that there may be matters or agendas within Unite’s membership which are best discussed internally among their members. His immediate focus remains on meeting with the bus company members this week, as well as management, to address any potential claims or issues they wish to raise.