Protesting JUTC drivers and management at impasse, Labour Ministry called in

The intervention of the Ministry of Labour has been sought amid a reported impasse between protesting Jamaica Urban Transit Company (JUTC) drivers and the company’s management.

The workers, who are represented by the University and Allied Workers Union (UAWU), met with management today at the JUTC’s depot in Spanish Town, St Catherine, to discuss concerns about the handling of an incident involving employees.

Earlier today, the JUTC stated that the incident is currently under investigation, noting that management has taken preliminary steps to address the matter. These steps include the temporary reassignment of the involved employees while maintaining their employment benefits.

These measures were communicated to all relevant parties, with assurances that appropriate action will be taken upon the conclusion of the investigation, the company added.

“While we acknowledge the concerns raised, we believe the industrial action is unnecessary, as the matter is being handled with due process. The demand for immediate termination of employees without a full investigation is not a course of action the company can take.”

Upset drivers withdrew their services today, causing disruptions for commuters.

The Gleaner was informed that a female driver was reportedly assaulted by a male and female supervisor on Saturday.

It is reported that the inspectors boarded the bus, and the female inspector was holding a cell phone as if she was attempting to record.

The driver reportedly pushed away the cell phone, at which point the female inspector allegedly hit her in the face, and the male inspector stepped in and grabbed the driver.

"The female driver was allegedly slapped, and her face became swollen from the injuries," a driver told The Gleaner when we visited the Spanish Town depot today.

"Everything remains the same. Nothing can change until the problem is solved," another driver said.

It was revealed that during a meeting on Monday, there was a general consensus that the driver should be allowed to work while the supervisors should be suspended.

"The company has 21 days to take action, and all involved parties should be placed on leave until the completion of the investigation," said another driver.

- Rasbert Turner

Follow The Gleaner on X, formerly Twitter, and Instagram @JamaicaGleaner and on Facebook @GleanerJamaica. Send us a message on WhatsApp at 1-876-499-0169 or email us at onlinefeedback@gleanerjm.com or editors@gleanerjm.com.