The National Trade Union Centre of Trinidad and Tobago (NATUC) has been reliably informed that the management of the Public Transport Service Corporation (PTSC) has initiated changes involving the engagement of private maxi taxis to operate services in areas traditionally and historically served by PTSC buses and its employed drivers. NATUC views this development with serious concern.
Where a Recognised Majority Union (RMU) exists, it is a fundamental principle of sound industrial relations that no employer can unilaterally implement changes affecting employment, staffing, or work arrangements without prior consultation and agreement with the recognised union.
In this instance, the Transport and Industrial Workers’ Union (TIWU) is the duly recognised bargaining agent for PTSC workers. The reported actions of PTSC management—and by extension the Government—are inconsistent with established and accepted industrial relations practices.
Such unilateral decision-making undermines collective bargaining, erodes trust, and disregards the legal and moral framework governing employer–employee relations. In today’s modern industrial relations environment, NATUC cannot and will not stand idly by while the hard-won rights of PTSC workers are disregarded or diminished.
Any initiative that has the potential to impact permanent employees, particularly bus drivers, must be the subject of meaningful dialogue, negotiation, and agreement between PTSC management and the TIWU.
Further, any proposed changes must be strictly in accordance with the existing Collective Agreement and must not circumvent the role and authority of the recognised union. Fair treatment, transparency, and the well-being of PTSC workers must remain a priority.
The introduction of private operators into established routes raises legitimate concerns regarding job security, displacement, and the long-term viability of the Corporation’s workforce.
NATUC therefore calls on the management of the PTSC to act in good faith and to immediately convene an urgent meeting with the Transport and Industrial Workers’ Union to address this matter, clarify intentions, and ensure that all actions taken are in keeping with proper industrial relations protocols. NATUC remains committed to defending the rights of workers and ensuring that due process is respected at all times.
Michael Annisette,
General Secretary
