Day #3: Bus Strike to End at Noon Today
[Updated - Video of Minister Lister's statement added] Government this morning [Feb 11] confirmed that the industrial action taken by bus drivers will continue for the third day, and that an 11am meeting for PTB employees and Marine & Ports ferry operators will result in disruptions to ferry services. It is unclear at this time what the level of disruption of the ferry service will be.
The strike, which started on Wednesday, February 9th at approximately 4:20pm, was predicated by the firing of an employee.
The employee in question has been working for PTB for 18 years, and called in sick for three days in a row, while working a part time job. He had previously been suspended for the same thing. BIU President Chris Furbert called a press conference on Wednesday and confirmed that “bus service was shut down.”
The strike continued yesterday, with drivers gathering at the Bus Depot and spending the day there. Mr Furbert addressed the drivers saying the “utter disrespect they (Government) show to the BIU is unacceptable.”
At 12:30pm yesterday Labour Minister Kim Wilson filed a Gazette Extraordinary pursuant to Section 4 and 11 of the Labour Disputes Act 1992, which by law requires all industrial actions to cease until the final determination of the Tribunal.
Later that day a proposal was made, from the BIU side, that the driver be reinstated with a months suspension and 6 months probationary period, which was rejected last night by Transport Minister Terry Lister.
At 8am this morning [Feb 11] Government released this statement: “Bus operators remain on strike this morning. There will be a meeting at 11 a.m. at BIU headquarters for PTB employees and Marine and Ports ferry operators which will also result in disruptions to ferry services.”
You can read coverage of Day #1 of the strike here, and coverage of Day #2 here, and updates for today will follow below.
Update 9:32am: The bus drivers are presently standing outside TCD and are said to be awaiting the outcome of a meeting happening inside. Those in the meeting are said to include BIU President Chris Furbert, Transport Minister Terry Lister, Union reps and more. The meeting is said to have started at 9:15am.
Update 10:10am Unofficial sources indicate the buses may start running later today. The driver has been reinstated, with what we understand is a suspension of several weeks and a year probation.
Update 10:37am: An official confirmed that the driver will be suspended for 5 weeks – with one year probation. Officials said it is “unlikely” he will be paid. Buses will start running after noon.
Update 10:47am: Minister Lister confirms the suspension will be without pay, and the worker will have a letter placed on his file.
Update 1:16pm: We asked the Premier for comment, and she referred us to the Transport Minister, who we caught up with at 12:30pm today, and asked him about the decision. The Minister said he is working for the best interests of the country. He said he was faced with the choice of “standing firm and dealing with this one man, or allowing the country to have the situation to escalate to something that could become a national strike at a time when the economy is challenged.” He said rather then place the country at risk over one man, he had to look at the entire picture. When asked if he thought the Union understands the economic difficulties we face and are willing to work with everyone, the Minister said he “would have said that up until Wednesday” [the day the strike began]. He went on to say “as this thing moved and started to escalate, I’m not sure.”
And we all wonder why so many employers view Bermudians as more of a liability than an asset when it comes to their employees…
Well here is a prime example as to why many prefer expats…
I know that these idiots don’t represent all Bermudians…but it only takes a few to ruin the reputation of all…
This is now outright embarassing for the whole of Bermuda…
I would like to apologize to any tourists which have been inconvenienced due to this idiotic, brainless, thoughtless and straight up ignorant action taken by the BIU…Please don’t let these fools be your example of how Bermuda and Bermudians operate
The BIU is telling the PLP, you work for us. The PLP is telling the BIU you work for us. This is the underlying power struggle. The BIU won this time around.
Actually, the BIU has lost terribly. They just don’t know it yet but in the future we all will know how far they have actually fallen.
Bottom Line…Bermuda’s reputation lost terribly, not the BIU this time around. If the PLP do well at the upcoming General Election, it will be interesting to see what happens to the BIU leadership. No doubt there are many in the PLP who find the BIU far too reckless, and therefore dangerous to the welfare of Bermuda.
I have to agree with you Bottom, mostly. But the BIU lost tons as well, we will see it soon enough.
I was once a proud Union member but that was when it stood for something, these days they (and particularly their so called “leader”) are a waste and have lost their way.
The motto “United we stand, divided we fall” is NOT to be followed blindly. But when the blind are led by the blind and intellectually challenged, well you get what we saw this week and prior.
Ditto
How isn’t this a prime example of how Bermudians operate?
Because I’m Bermudian, most of my friends and family are Bermudian, and we all think the BIU and this man need to just plain and simple GO!!
You can’t say that all Canadians are representative of a few individuals, so the same courtesy must be extended to Bermudians. Sounds like you need to get to KNOW some other Bermudians mate.
To make matters worse for the general public, this morning several (maybe 50 bus drivers) decided to walk in the middle of Palmetto road at 8:50. So thank you bus drivers – not only was traffic slow because there are more vehicles on the road – you also made several people LATE for their jobs as you decided NOT TO USE A SIDE WALK!!!!!!!
Come on wrong is wrong let him go n get on with it.
FIRE. THEM. ALL.
The Minister of Transport said that this strike is illegal. But who cares?
Come on Premier, show us the testicular fortitude you talk about all the time.
Public schools go back in on Monday >> DON’T MESS AROUND !
People ONLY do what they are allowed to do ! DRIVERS, PLEASE DON’T THINK YOU ARE IRREPLACEABLE !
Whether they are or not it doesn’t matter, and this just proves it. They and i mean all unionised people have no fear and no longer need to have fear. Do what you want and you will always have a job. They are not irreplaceable, they won’t be fired so it does not apply.
Why does the public have to suffer for his actions. This should have been handled between the worker and his boss. Now we all have to suffer. Great – Good job. I really dont care what he did when and what your rules are with the union. Sort this mess out soon. Mr. Furbert try talking not shouting and maybe you will get a better response for the public. Hope this is resolved soon whatever the outcome. Get the buses back on the road to do what they are paid to do. WORK.
Have a great day everyone
I REALLY WANT TO KNOW WHO IN THE HECK THEY THINK THEY ARE !! AROUND HERE PROTECTING A FRAUDSTER !! A TRICKSTER !! WHO GOT BOOKED AND FIRED, NOW HIS COLLEAGUES ARE OUT HERE ACTING THE A$$!! LOOK FRIG THAT… WHAT ELSE IS THIS DUDE CAPABLE OFF?? OR ALL OF THEM -CORRUPT BEHAVIOR!
I WAS LATE ! CAN’T YOU TELL… I’M MAD !
Lol – at the intimidation factor with all the members lurking outside TCD. I hope it pours!
The whole situation is a farce! This isnt trade unionism- it’s hostage-taking!
I wish they could be fired… after all there are plenty of Bermudians who are looking for work right?!?!? The union has TOO much power lol they always have Gov’t by the balls.
Oh well just another example of why companies prefer hiring expats… CUZ THEY WORK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
If 99% of people agree that you’re wrong, and it’s 50/50 whether you’re acting like a spoiled child or just an a**hole, you should probably take a good hard look at yourself and your actions.
Premier, Minister, BPS, who is in charge? At the moment not any of you. The BIU is. Their President calls a strike. The members, in a show of hands, not secret ballot, support him & the Island is thrown into chaos. PTB employees obstruct traffic, an offence, & the BPS do nothing. Should have booked the lot of them.
Draw the line in the sand. Be at work Monday or fired. Surely there are plenty of construction workers, especially truck drivers, who could quickly take the bus driving positions with very little training.
Bring in mechanics. The PTB locals don’t seem to be keeping up with maintenance anyway.
What the employee did was fraud. There is not a tribunal on earth that would find that behaviour acceptable, and the union should not support it either.
The gov’t should fine the union for every day that service is disrupted. And by fine, I mean punitive fine.
I just heared the driver has been reinstated are you serious? What did the BIU say its members would note vote for the Government?
Unreal, if true. What a sad sad state of affairs. It says a lot about Bermuda and Bermudians. Incapable of doing the right thing.
It’s over, last one out, turn of the light.
Suppsosedly the guys has been reinstated with 5 weeks suspension and on probation.
Also, the Govt agreed to pay the workers who went on strike their full wage for the time they were striking!!!!!!
Can you say bent over and ******…
Cause that is exactly what the Govt did and the BIU didn’t even use protection…
Chris MUBARAK NEEDS TO STAND DOWN and LEAVE the BUI!!
LOL…
Hilariously…ditto!
Good call “Call”. But that would leave the Vice President in charge or the Secretary GENERAL….bwahaaaaaaaaa.
if he just got his job back…I will never vote PLP…give me any other party
I may just start a website NEVER VOTE PLP AND SIGN MY NAME TO IT FIRST
start this site and I will be #2 on the list.
I have been a member for a few years now, and lately its just been clear to me that they are a bunch of fools. I wonder if i can get a refund?
I wonder what dale butler would have done?
I mean, Its illegal and Chris Furbert thinks he can control a country……well if no one is stopping him then………….he reminds me of a spoiled bratty child.
o and….screw the union.
Hey..make me #3 on that list.
The BIU should be disbanded, seriously. This was obviously wrong, and neither Lister nor anyone else in Govt had the balls to do the right thing – fire that driver!!
Why should the BIU workers be given special treatment compared to other Bermudian workers? They basically work in a situation where you will NEVER lose your job…GUARANTEED. Why isn’t that level of job security extended to all Bermudians, in a time when we really need it?
Oh, I know…because the rest of us work in the REAL WORLD.
# 4 here
#5
#6
#7
#8
Government caved, no surprise here.
Seems the Premier answers to the union leader after all.
The driver has been reinstated? If that is true, what kind of a government gives in to such obviously wrong conduct? As arrogant as Brown was, he at least would have stood up to such crap form the BIU. Paula Cox and the rest of the government have shown that they have no backbone whatsoever. Poor example for our children and the many big adult babies walking around.
They are learning that you can be irresponsible, do wrong and get away with it. We talk about parents being responsible for teaching children correctly but the government also has a huge impact and they have failed all of us (except that awful employee). Expats are looking better and better options.
Like I said it is of no wonder that so many employers look overseas for their employees…
Who in their right mind would want to deal with this overwhelming sense of entitlement from underhanded and crooked Bermudian employees?
Mr. Lister you lost alot of credibility today along with your whole administration…
Soft as cheese cloth…
yup.. .i agree… every time the discussion of bermudian vs expat workers comes up, the topic that if an expat is fired, business goes on, but if a bermudian is fired its all hell…
and damn if this just proves it… a real nail in the coffin for bermudian’s reputations.. if there was a stereotype before that locals are dangerous to hire before, damn i cant imagine how it’ll be now…
It just goes to prove that this Government has no backbone and is not willing to stand up for the “rights’ of the employer to fire someone for GROSS misconduct! I guess they really did not want a Bus and Ferry Strike during their Budget presentation next week!!
And we wonder why over half of Govt revenue is spent on civil servants pay?
They cannot get fired for anything!!!
It is true, Bermudians are alergic to working in any government run institution. They have had their way for so long, they have become lazy and complacent. So many people are out of work right now and this lot are happy to refuse to work, while we as tax payers, pay, pay, pay. We need a firm hand on this Island to take things to the next level. A no BS leader who is ready to change for the good no matter what, no matter if you loose the votes.
Shame on the Bus Drivers, same as when Igor happened and they refused to go to work. Lazy!! and looking for days off!
Tell them the following.
1. Get you butts back in work ASAP.
2. Fire them all and bring in some expat bus drivers, should not be too hard to find.
When companies like BA go on strike as least they give the public plenty of notice to sort out other travel plans. Even the miners strike in the 80s in the UK, they gave notice. And quote me if I am wrong in a normal country when you go on strike you do not get paid. Are we saying that these bus drivers are now using this excuse to get paid and get extra vacation days. Shame on them.
Pathetic.
Friday February 11, 2011
The day Bermuda died
There is no turning back now. God speed to all those who are leaving
This is truly unbelievable that this bus driver will be reinstated. The BIU has the GOVT by the balls!!!! If this man worked in the private sector he would have had to pack his box and leave!!!!! I can not believe that the union and anyone else would support this. A man his age definetely knows better and I am sure he raised his children better.
Chris Furbert you are a joke. The only wrong doing this driver did was not call in and advise PTB that he would be coming in to do a side job!!!! Are you for real!!!!
I honestly feel that the public should now boycott buses. This is totally unreal!!! It really proves what state this island is in!!!
Can’t have got them by the balls THEY DON’T HAVE ANY!
Dee you are sooo right!!!! Well the BIU must have something on the GOVT!!!!
Ya, it’s called 95% of BIU vote PLP!!!!
Gazette Extraordinary = Worth less than the paper it was written on
Disgusting. The Government finally had the backing of a united public on something and failed to stand their ground. Very, very disheartening, the Government doesn’t run this country, the Union does. Perhaps Premier Cox should rethink the term ‘politically neutered’…
Chris Furbert has got to be the most powerful man in Bermuda!!! To fight for the most ridiculous cause, and WIN is a sign of his power……. What a joke.
I’m off to get my BRITISH passport before its too late
go on get your British Iv’e lived there for many years, and they love to strike, The London Underground ,and don’t forget the NHS, with all the non-working citizens at the job centre living of council estates and sucking the country dry. There arn’t many British people working in England, the y all at home watching Coranation street and eastenders, sipping on a magners cider, playing lotto, or in pub.
So why do you live there then…… Hello!!!!!!
Those are just the low life of Britons, just like most Bermudians really.
I wonder.. if the BIU knows where the bodies are buried on Berkeley and the new TCD..even the court building?
Seems they had more to bargain with than this fraudulent employee and his w*nker colleagues.
R u serious, he was reinstated?! This has got to be a joke. AND bus drives recieve pay for shifts not worked. My Government has no power clearly, heads should be hanging is shame. Im dumbfounded!
When is the next election? The UBP/BDA ie Let’s Get Back Together Party should be all over this.
Too many secrets kept in Alaska Hall…..
Remember the 60′s-70′s. If your too young, research.
A certain son of a certain member lives….research…….
Hey don’t shoot the messenger. Look what happened last time.
Come on Terry, everyone knows that…
Until Bermuda openly faces up to it’s past and continues to tlak behind closed doors then we will continue to have f*ck ups like this.
For anyone else interested….
http://hnn.us/articles/29986.html
That was long before my time, so I’m glad you linked it. I knew part of the story but…holy crap. Wow.
It’s the “uncomfortable truth” for the PLP.
I plan on purchasing the book – but on the same note the UBP is not better – a lot was done under the table back then to keep certain people in power and positions – so basically two wrongs don’t make a wright – but it’s good to know where we came from so we are better informed wherever we may end up. It’s some pretty intersesting stuff..
You would expect that allowing the strike to last for three days, the Government will come up with something that will show that they are in control and will stand up for what is just and right. However, after all this drama, the driver will be reinstated…
This decision should have been made 3 days ago that should have SPARED the commuting public from hassle and extra expenses because after all, the steps taken by the Ministry for the past days appeared irrelevant anyway…
This is why we went school for to be taught, trained, and disciple for when we came out to reality for work. If you skipped school and got caught what happens? you get detention or sepended right. Well when it come to work its the same thing. So to all the kids out there if you miss behave or skip school and you get caught and get detention or sepended. GO ON STRIKE!!! What a fine example these a$$holes are showing to our young people.
Should do what the EGYPTIANS are doing!!
Demand the Resignation of Chris MUBARAK and this
USELESS party in Government!!
R U kidding? That would just bring the “white racist lynch mob” out just like three times before.
Nothing happens till the apathetic blacks get off their collective butts.
Now – there are unionised WHITE’s who are members of he BIU – the BIU was not primarily founded on RACE but on fairness for the blue collar worker – clearly you don’t understand what a union is for – Yes majority of the members in Bermuda are Black but there are certainly WHITE bus drivers – or are you classifying them as “GREY DOGS” – I take personal offense to your comment. It’s not a BLACK and WHITE issue.
JOKERS…THA LOT OF ‘EM!!!!
Everyone that I talked to yesterday and this morning were 100% behind Terry Listers stance, regardless of any political affiliations, and he not only backed down, but meted out this miniscule consequence to the bus driver and on top of that, agreed to pay illegal strikers!!!! WTH!!!! TOTALLY lost my respect for him and our goverment. Screw Joe People and Screw the tourists ! Great job Mr Lister!!!!
I think a years probation is plenty enough rope for him to hang himself!!!
This is complete BS. There is no need to the government to give up power so easily and let people know that it’s ok to get away with nonsense. What type of example does this set for the kids in school, they can do whatever they want and will get away with it because the union says so? Yeah that really the worth ethic we want. No wonder it was so difficult for a Bermudian like me to find a good job! Too many of “US” wanting something for nothing and not willing to accept the consequences of our own actions! Man up! You did it know it was wrong, knowing you had been punished for it in the past. Now DEAL with it! The Union was right to protest the disrespect from the minister; however it was for the wrong reasons! The employee was wrong and should accept the outcome of his actions!
Oh dearie me, a letter on his file? Gosh, that’s far too harsh a punishment for disrupting the country for three days. I hope he doesn’t feel too bad about it, poor man.
Will the letter even apply in 18 months?
LOL
Hah! Truth in that.
Brother Furbert and the union are in charge of this Isle of devils.
You can say that again! I need “brotha” Furbert to be my brothers keeper
Somebody…anybody…give me the guys name that called in sick…I’m gonna give him a “BIG FAT KISS” on Valentine’s Day when I find it out! TELL ME…TELL ME BERMUDA TELL MEEEEE!!!!!!!!
Agreed! Release this brothers name.
WTF What a joke suspended without pay and probation that really pisses me off. Mr. Lister they have you by the short and curlies. You create your own damn demons and it has ruin this island….. This is a problem in Bermuda people get away with doing as they please without consequences. Bunch of jokers running this island guess what people even when you have lost your job and have no means to put food on the table they will still get a paycheck.
The employee should be named and shamed… Put him on Balst..!!
Mr. Furbert said his name on the news..
Unbelievable!! All I can say is unbelievable!!! I was so hoping that finally finally someone had the sense to alter this crazy path that we are on. I was so hoping that Terry Lister would finaly be the minister who would not be afraid to stand on principla and send a clear message to the union. This is insanity!!
How someone can commit FRAUD and be reinstated is beyond me. Futhermore, the last time I checked stealing (whether its time or property) is against the law. In the ‘real world’ you go to jail for commiting fraud. But in Bermuda, where the union clearly calls the shots, you are rewarded for such actions by getting to keep your job! Back to business as usual. As a Bermudian, I was so hoping that the new premier meant what she said when she promised “No more business as usual”. Well clearly it is business as usual – same ol, same ol – the union has the country by the balls and we have a government that doesn’t have what it takes to stand up to them. The Minister of Transport and the Premier clearly do answer to Chris Furbert. Must be nice having having the government answer to you. this is a sad day for Bermuda….
I will never ride a bus at any cause again. I will not vote PLP. But, I would like the Union to defend me in the case that I stole a chocolate bar but called the shop beforehand to tell them I’m doing so. Im sure they will do right by me. Terry Lister is as weak as Chris Furbert’s defence. But then again he did prevail didn’t he. Who’s in power here?
DISGUST
I have to say, I am totally disappointed with this outcome. At a time when we are trying to put Bermudians back to work and fix the economy the childishness of Chris Furbert and the Union is rewarded for a person who was WRONG! Chris Furbert actually said, “What he did was not that bad.” This driver called in sick from his promary job and yet went in to work at his part time job. So he was paid twice by the Government as his part time job was with a company that has a contract with the DPT! If this driver worked anywhere in the private sector, he would have been immediately fired. This is called stealing! Gross misconduct = Termination! And to top it off we are going to pay the drivers who have been on strike! Thumbs down. The public was in total support of this man not being re-instated and the Government backed down.
Minister Lister I really wish you would have stood your ground on this one.
Boycott the buses…Boycott the buses!!! This is truly a sad day for Bermuda….if I had the money to leave, I would book my ticket today. I think that the Government let down the people of Bermuda who were behind them on their stance that had been taken earlier. It was so sad to hear the news today that this stance was only a smoke screen because it was blown away in a puff of wind. What a sad, sad day for Bermuda. I think we are a lost country with a government that doesn’t know the way and doesn’t have the ability to lead.
Sh*t flows downhill. And the Government and the BIU just took a big cr*p on all of us.
that is it!!!!, what a spoil Island is this!!!!!!!!….EVERYONE WNATS GOOS JOB WITH HIGH PAYMENT AND LOW QUALIFICATION!!!. NOW EVERYONE CAN CALL SAING THERE ARTE SICK AND DO WHEREVER THEY WANT…….. BERMUDA POLITITIONS SHOULD BE SHAME!!!!! HOW THEY MANAGE THIS BAD SPOIL BEHAVIOR IN BERMUDA CITIZEN…….FIRE ALL!!! ELIMINATE THE SINDICATE, THEY HAVE SO MUCH POWER!!!!!!
REALLY A SHAME!!! THIS GUY SHOUB BE FIRED!!!!
So if I call in sick next week and go off and do my other jawb, the worst I should get is a letter midly rebuking my unwise actions?
Has Lister gone completely off his rocker?
These union people are thugs.
Whats Terry Listers email address? Lets let him know what we think because he obviously isn’t in touch with the people!
http://plp.bm/contact/mp
Let’s all write to the PLP and voice our displeasure.
Here you go:
http://www.plp.bm/contact/mp
Here’s his email: tlister@gov.bm
I really had hope that government would have grown a spine and stood their ground against this one. Needless to say I’ve been disappointed both by the government and by the BIU in their failure to resolve this dispute in the proper way. If what has been publicly said about this employee is true, he at least committed a fraud not to mention the gross misconduct. When are they going to stop making apologies for behavior that would get someone fired in the real world.
Too bad Bermuda IS another world – I don’t wish anyone to lose their job in this climate, but letting something like that slide. Come on!
This is a great decision! It is one that is in the best interests of not just the BIUs members but all of Bermuda’s working men and women. I am glad Minister Terry Lister finally saw sense and ignored the foolishness being spoken by those who are only interested in breaking the rights and the spirits of Bermuda’s workers. They tried to dispose of an EXCELLENT driver with an EXCELLENT work record like he was trash! The days when management could act with such RECLESS DISREGARD for Bermudian workers and there rights are long gone! This is the “NEW” Bermuda and if Government and Bermuda’s union-haters need to be reminded of that fact from time to time too bad! The bus strike reminded everyone how much they depend on union men and women and not to DARE take us for GRANTED. Remember, Bermuda WE SHALL NOT BE MOVED!
Yah LAZY drivers…and half of you cannot even drive correctly…running reds in town and speeding down Middle Road. GAWAN!!!
Interest. Reckless. Their rights. Thanks. You drive my kids to school? Jesus wept.
So you feel that the dishonesty and the fraud and the forging of signatures was ok because the driver was an excellent driver.
Yes, cuz expecting people to respect generally accepted employment norms (like not calling in sick and going to another job) is SOOO ‘old’ Bermuda.
*The irony is that apparently it really is, cuz the Union said so and Gv’ment agreed*
Heaven help us all.
Have you fallen on your head? Let me ask you this: Say a person has never committed a crime until a year ago. For that crime they are sentenced to imprisonment for a month but before they are due to serve the sentence a deal is struck for a probation instead. Now a year later that person commits the same offence while adding additional offences at the same time. Given that a reduced sentence was awarded a year ago, shouldn’t that person face imprisonment now? I say yes. Clearly the person not only did not learn from the previous mistake but has actually become worse because of it.
The issue here is not how good of a bus driver he is but that his integrity and morality are sufficiently deficient that this person can no longer operate in the business. With 18 years of service and having dodged the termination bullet just over a year ago for the same offence, you would think this person would have had the common sense to avoid such.
I don’t dislike the BIU. But the concept that every member’s job should be protected no matter the offence is deeply flawed. Lately, this seems to be the mantra of the BIU: No matter what don’t terminate our members. First a drunk ferry pilot and now a forging and time thieving bus driver. What is next? Right is right and wrong is wrong. Bringing bus service to a halt for this individual with his record of impropriety is unquestionably wrong? Some terminations are warranted and this one definitely falls into that category.
So the New Bermuda awards lying, forging and stealing from your employer?
You all are a bunch of selfish idiots with no set of morals or principles.
I can’t wait till the Govt are forced to makre cut backs in the civil service. I hope they go after all you lot at the PTB first and foremost.
Your actions were a slap in the face to all hard working and honest Bermudians which appears not to be a pre-requiste to be part of the Union.
When you idiots stop your bus and force children and other travellers out on the side of street so that you can get a few paid days off to defend a lying and thieving employee then you have only yourselves to blame for the majority of Bermuda becoming Union haters.
Selfish people the whole lot of you as far as I am and the majority are concerned.
now go back to work you lazy a**!!
This just goes to show that the BIU stands for anything. By this, you are going to fight for someone who used someone elses name on a document for payment. They seem to fight for individuals that committ wrong doing and than want to make us hostage because you want to go out on strike for someone who did not value your job or thier family values in the first place. This union is a joke and this government. Everyone keeps saying they want to help improve the young black man to be functional citizens within the job market. What message are we sending to our young people. Do wrong and you will always have the representation of a stupid union leader and workers who will come out in support for evil doings. You operator’s deserve what every you get from now on. I hope the people of this island carpool and catch taxis instead of riding on your bus.
Solidarity4Ever: You are an absolutely IDOT, one who is devoid of any education. I have absolutely no respect for Mr. Lister. He should have fired the entire lot of drivers and employ the special services to drive the buses until new drivers could have been recruited and trained. What sort of responsibility are we displaying to not only our young people but to the entire nation; I guess it is okay to break the law. The man took time and should accept the consequences of his action. There is no wonder that CRIME has escalated throughout Bermuda. In most countries, the Bus services are considered an essential service without the right to strike. When bargaining has broken down, an arbitrator is appointed and accepted by both parties to reach a decision that is acceptable to all. The bus drivers abandon their jobs and should be FIRED. Mr. Faubert has displayed in is conversation with the media to be someone with very little education. Next time you seek help from the government remember this action by the Bus Drivers who has helped drain the financial coffers of Bermuda. Don’t just blame the government overall.
@Solidarity- So what have you accomplished? This isnt the 60′s 0r 70′s. There is no liberation movement going on! Is the BIU’s only weapon to call a Strike? Talk about overkill. You just cut off you nose to spite your face!!!
You’d better hope the union can continue protecting people like you… Otherwise we’ll all see you in the unemployment line.
SMH ….. WE SHALL NOT BE MOVED??? You have completely lost the plot.
Wow…It’s good to see people taking a real stand and voicing their opinions and giving feedback. Yeah this is truly a shame however its the people of Bermuda who have ultimate control. The Egyptian people are sending a clear message. Pay close attenion, look and listen… It’s obvious Bermuda is in a state of Clear and Present Danger.
this is probably the first time the whole country has been on the same side(minus SOME of the bus drivers) and yet government stab us in the back….
THE BEST FRIEND OF THIEIVES ARE OTHER THIEVES….
You would think that the Bermuda Government would have learned its lesson by now. Clearly the only solution (with the current administration) is to have all cases that require any measure of disciplinary action to be first consulted with the BIU. Once the BIU agrees that the action is permissible (by watering-down and dulling management’s desired action) then, and only then, should management meet with the employee to deliver the BIU sanctioned punishment (albeit in a non-disrespectful manner; preferably with a cold ginger-beer and a fish-cake on a toasted coffee roll with cheese).
History has shown (with the current administration) that any other course of action will result in an illegal disruption of public services (that of course will go unpunished) at great expense to business (local and international) and the public. Perhaps, a keen group of Government employees should bring together their respective skills and data and calculate just how much each hour of striking cost business in lost of productivity.
The current administration really needs to pull a Margaret Thatcher on the BIU to re-educate them to the realities of employment outside of the Government’s gentle cradle. This was the perfect opportunity. Bermuda is not in the height tourist season. Government should have stood its ground and warned (not threatened) them that illegal strikers would be fired. Bus drivers and ferry crew have bills to pay just like the rest of us. Enough would have returned for a limited Sunday/Holiday schedule. When the remainder came to their senses they could be hired back at the lowest pay grade as a new driver.
This administration kowtows to every whim of the BIU. They are so afraid of being uncomfortable for a just cause they give the BIU whatever it wants before its members are uncomfortable. This reminds me of my son and my wife. He’ll cry and stomp to get his way from her because he knows that Mommy will give in. However, he obeys Daddy because he knows not only will Daddy not give in but Daddy will also make him uncomfortable for all the crying and stomping. Let them feel some discomfort and they will be more amicable to conduct themselves in a professional manner and not stand behind those that do not.
It is truly discussing how spineless this administration is. Yet another BIU precedent has been set. Well done, BIU.
Unbelievable! For once the PLP Government had people on both sides of the political spectrum supporting them & they blow it.
Shame on you Terry Lister for not standing your ground. Bigger shame on Premier Cox for not supporting her Minister. Shame on the rest of the PLP for not supporting him either. Good on the UBP/BDA/whatever Party for knowing when to keep your mouths shut for a change.
I guess politics, & skeletons in closets, trumps the better service to the people. In the end the PLP knows the SHEEPLE will vote for them no matter what they do.
Since this employee forged a signature why is the BPS not now investigating him.
That bus driver better watch out.
Stay tuned for the next exciting development in the budget.
Middle Classes will pay again, and again, and again….
You had better believe it
So true and I am really getting tired of it. Middle class paying for all these babies, emergency housing, QC’s for prisoners, free tution at BC and free bus and ferry rides and also license fees for persons over 65. How far do they thing our salaries can go.
Don’t forget the new national health plan unveiled earlier this week.
That would be the plan where the middle class will be forced to pay more in insurance premiums and receive the exact same benefits as others that are required to pay less.
In Bermuda you are penalized for being moderately successful, while the Unionists are protected from being fired for stealing from and lying to your employer.
It is only going to get worse…
Perhaps Bernews can start a side line matching ride share partners…Here’s a first one:
Ride share desired from Bailey’s Bay area into town M-F, typical work hours; will happily pay the $55/month I’d otherwise put to my bus pass ….
Great idea!!! Bernews jump on this right away.
Send us an email to remind us tomorrow, we are stretched incredibly thin today between strike coverage, drug case, House of Assembly debates etc. Sats are always lighter…
Totally understand. You have been doing such an excellent job with this coverage – very much appreciated. As it was I go to you first for news, and this situation reinforced that. As someone earlier noted, I’ve become something of a Bernews addict!
Theres that good old Bermudian work ethic “Ya ya, I’ll do it tomorrow”
You’re off base on this one lawl. I don’t know how many people work for Bernews now, but in the early days it was just Pat. She works her tail off. I wish I had her energy.
Bernews trumps the other two news sites repeatedly. When something’s happening, Bernews is there. There’s no work ethic issues at Bernews.
I thought the name “lawl” (lawl=lol) would get the sarcasm across… definitely meant as a joke, Bernews is great!
You are amazing. Thank you for everything you do.
Great idea. We need to show that we can get around this island with out catching a pink and blue.
I’m up for that!
Cool! I work on Church Street and work fairly normal hours. I’m in. Bernews, start that board! I’ll be looking for one or two more. And- tell you what- I won’t take $55/month, I’ll UNDERCUT those BASTARDS. Chip in $50 and you’ve got yourself a deal. Am out in St. George’s and Bailey’s Bay is on my way. Anyone else?
THIS can work! (And – my office is also on Church! Looking sweet!)
Happy to boycott the buses. Am also in St.Geo. Let me know what time you roll out mornings and return in the evenings. Please. Sick of this tyranny of the Ignorant. Where are the leaders with, let me get it right…”Testicular Fortitude”??
Hey Good idea!!! I will do the same if anyone is interested. I will be travelling alone in my car anyways. Refusing the catch the bus ever again. Good IDEA!
You see this is the problem with Bermuda today! There is NO ACCOUNTABILITY. If you are a member of the BIU you can cheat, steal, commit fraud, lie and re-offend but as long as you can pay your union dues you are protected. Deputy Premier be careful if the current BIU President continues to follow your lead, I mean he has already tied with you on STUPID, IRRESPONSIBLE strikes (yours after Fabian); you will come to work one day and realise that we have a NEW Deputy Premier! Sorry Senator Wilson and Terry Lister you just made too much sense, upheld the law of the land and exhibited way too much integrity! For that your counterparts had to embarrass you! But don’t feel isolated, as a Bermudian, they have embarrassed me too.
So, how many members does the union have? Take away the foreigners, and you get, what….1500? So Bermuda and this government are running the country to placate and please a very small minority. What about the other 25,000 of us who want to work, want jobs for our children, invested in Bermuda, and are still willing to give? What about us? When will a political party turn its sights on the broad middle class of Bermudians who built this country, and are being denied their benefits because liars, cheaters, and thieves have taken over. As was said by a politician not too long ago: Bermuda’s middle class is under threat. (my words) If it falters, the island is lost.
Amen!!!!!
There’s certainly more to this decision than we will know.
It seems that the reinstated man may have known more about other abuses that are or were going on within Government…
I mean, do you really think his, is an isolated case?
Only him, the lowest man on the totem was targetted?
It’s obvious to all, he knew of other abuses and that, ultimately, was his leverage.
NOW is the time for whistle blower and anti corruption legislation!
Table it today.
SJS
Well you can pray.
A friend just debated with me, that it’s Mr. Furbert that’s holding some cards close to his chest. In his capacity of Union leader he would definitely know of any corruption or abuse in Government. Well, it’s an interesting theory, given the unbelievable outcome…
Anyone else noticed how silent our ‘leader’ has been throughout this?
(oops – just realize that was a bit ambiguous – by ‘leader’ I mean Cox, not Furbert)
When are we going to hold grown people for their actions. I am ashamed at the message that this sends to young people. We as adults are suppose to be setting an example how to properly conduct yourself when employed. This individual has been disciplined before. Chris Furbert you should lose your position as you have acted IRRESPONSIBLY and RECKLESS! I am so sick of hearing about disrespect of the union (because in actual fact you feel that they should not disrespect you). Respect is earned not taken by force!!!! None of the PTB drives thought that this driver should have been held accountable? That is sad because it tells me there are more followers than leaders. I am very sad today to call myself BERMUDIAN! All this says it that you can do wrong on your job, but make sure you are unionised so that you can be reinstated.
@Solidarity4ever
So your happy that the man forged a signature, took the day off, went work else where, got paid for both jobs, fired and then reinstated? Is this what your agreeing with? MAWI is obviously missing a patient.
The whole DTP needs to be under investigation. A whole lot of crookery is going on. All you drivers need to do is steer the wheel of the pink and blue with a smile. And 99% of you caunt even do that! So duneenvorrywifit.
One word: Corruption
Right on.
The auditor general has been saying this for years now. The PLP leads by example. Fraud and forgery are just not considered serious anymore. ho hum
I would just like to tip my cap to the driver…well played sir. Not only did you get away with it AGAIN, but you earned yourself a 5 week paid vacation in the process. The only way i would be more impressed is if he planned the whole thing and only forged those papers to ensure he got caught. I can’t wait till a driver shows up drunk, gets in an accident, causes damage and gets to keep his job thanks to his union pals…oh wait
Did we, the people, expect any different!!! Every Government Employee now has the spineless bunch by the short and curlies!!! Wish you could get away with this in the real world!!
5 weeks paid vacation… So he can work at his second job???
Aaaaaand another failure brought to you by your PLP Government. Ironically, you had overwhelming public support and still managed to come away looking gutless and spineless. PLP all the way, all the way PLP…..
Right thinking people of Bermuda clearly this is insanity at its best. I agree with the writers above and I encourage you all to email:
info@plp.bm
Flood the inbox with emails to voice your displeasure there as well. The people of Bermuda deserve better. This in not the time to take this lying down. This is the wrong message to send to our kids and to those of us Bermudians who work hard each day to represent ourselves and employers well – with integrity and accountability. The Minister and the Premier need to hear from us! Boycott the buses, flood the inbox with emails use your voice and the power of choice (i.e choose not to take the bus going forward) to make an impact. Car pool, ride share drive or ride in to work whatever it takes to drive the point home! I stopped taking the bus years ago because I got tired of dealing with attitudes of bus drivers who seemed to feel that they were doing us a ‘favour’ by operating the bus. Far too many drivers are disrespectful, curt and impolite. Todays action will only make this worse. Its time we remind them who pays their wages! Email your displeasure to info@plp.bm.
Even a child can see this is the wrong way. Very hard to explain…
Kid – So, he got his job back after getting fired for cheating?
Adult – Yes.
Kid – Cause of the strike?
Adult – Yep.
Kid – That’s weird. Wasn’t the strike illegal too?
Will they get paid for the days they have been on strike?
The BIU should use this and the DUI ferry operator in their advertising for new members
Join the BIU – Commit fraud, skip work and call in sick, drink and drive – don’t worry, our members will never lose their jobs because we have the Government by there balls…
yes they get paid…
that was one of the mandated positions by the BIU and accepted by the Govt!!!
Never thought I would say this, but this is when we needed Doc Brown. He was Minister of Transport and if any politician would have told them go to hell, it would have been Brown.
Wasn’t he the one that gave the drunk ferry driver his job back?
LOL. Yes. Yes he was. I say call the Colonel.
i totally agree. call burch. i am not PLP but at least he has intergrity!!!!!!!
Oh you’re funny…you mean just like he did all those other times they struck illegally? Riiiiiiight.
You mean like how he told them the performance bond would be forgiven in exchange for no wildcat strikes go to hell? Ewart Brown kowtowed to the Union just like all the other Gv’ment leaders have.
If anyone’s interested, here are some templates for letters you may want to send to PRemier Cox, Minister Lister, and the BIU’s Mr. Furbert to let them know how we feel about this.
Good day, Ms. Cox,
The island looks to its leaders at a time of crisis. That time has come in the past three days, and you have remained silent. Why? In doing so, you effectively condone the reprehensible behaviour of the BIU, their illegal strike, and the unethical, potentially illegal behaviour of the driver in question.
You have remained silent on so many other issues – the economy, most notably given your position as Minister of Finance. Please, for the sake of Bermuda, address these issues. Call on Bermudians, starting with the BTB and their BIU members, to conduct ourselves responsibly, graciously, and ethically, and to share the trials – and indeed not add to them by refusing them transport – of our fellow Bermudians during these trying economic times.
The old Bermuda is dying, and there is no new Bermuda to replace. I love this island, but it is dying and you, as leader, own some responsibility for that. I would like to see you step up and speak to the people, acknowledge that, and then condemn the actions of the driver in question and of the BIU. Illegal and unethical behaviour pervades in this country, and it is to our detriment if we allow that to continue.
Sincerely,
[your name here]
Good Day, Mr. Lister,
I know that I speak not only for myself, but for thousands if not the vast majority of Bermudians. Permitting the BIU to strike, and giving in to their demands when they are clearly ludicrous shows that you have no willingness to accept personal responsibility, and in doing so you set the example for other Bermudians. We were waiting for you to take a stand, to tell the BIU that they need to not condone illegal and unethical actions of their members, that they cannot grip Bermuda and hold it hostage, but instead you gave in. I urge you to fine the BIU for their illegal actions, and to demand that they conduct themselves better in the future. It is one thing to fight for the rights of a wronged party, but in this instance the worker deserved to be fired. Anyone in a private company would have been fired the first time. You cannot, for the sake of Bermuda, its reputation and its people, allow this to float by without a vocal and serious condemnation.
Sincerely,
[your name here]
Good Day, Mr. Furbert,
I write to you as a citizen of Bermuda. I write to you because I too share a love of this country and our people. The community wants you to stand up for workers who are genuinely wronged. To condone the actions of this man – and they were possibly illegal, certainly unethical, and in no way defensible – should be considered an insult to what the workers of Bermuda stand for. Over the course of three days, you have lost all credibility with the public. Next time you and the BIU are in the public eye, you will not be as easily forgiven as you have been in the past, and it may very well be in a case where a worker was truly wronged. I urge you to condemn this man and to issue a public and heartfelt apology so as to maintain any credibility with the public.
Sincerely,
[your name here]
Perfect. Could not have crafted these letters any better. Thank you.
Premier Cox did not stand up to Dr.Browns rampage so what is any difference now? Her cards are plainly on the table for the public to see. The Egyptian president has just been ousted by the people of their country, pretty much the same as the people reinstated a co-worker here in Bermuda. Power to the people!
And yeah I know that’s a long comment, but all you’ve got to do is copy and paste it and email it to the concerned parties. Don’t be silent. Voice your displeasure. Make change happen.
And good day.
Come on people, you all don’t really want a Leader with Balls, who would probably just fire the lot of them and not give a crap what anyone has to say.
You had that leader and didn’t want him. Now you have a bunch of wimps running the show and you expect that they would show balls, and do the right thing, which in this case, would have been popular. If they can’t make a tough decision, which was popular, how the hell are they going to make the tough and unpopular decisions that this country needs to move it forward.
We need an alternative to part politics. Both Parties have been hijacked by “special interest groups” Neither Party, is capable of moving the country forward.
Lets get rid of them and and install a “Government of the people, by the people, and for the people” then crap like this would not be possible because, they who we put in charge, would be accountable to us, and not to the Union, the Churches, or any other groups, for that sake.
Yes!
Co-sign!
lol Prince Edness for biu pres and trans port minister ……..sad to say lol but he can get his workers to do anything and they will never go on strike
Concerned Bermudian
It would simply go right into their SPAM and be Deleted.
It wont do a damm thing.
If you are a member of the BIU, what do you have to be fired for that the union won’t back you?
Vote UBP…
What’s that? UBP?
LMAO! You people really crack me up. The labour movement has been the most important historical force not just WORKERS RIGHTS in Bermuda but for full CIVIL and POLITICAL RIGHTS. The BIU still ACTIVELY defends those rights. Clearly the PLP, once the political arm of Bermuda’s labour movement, has FAR LESS interest in protecting those FUNDAMENTAL rights it’s founding fathers fought and sacrificed for. Congratulations, again, to Bro. Chris Furbert for doing what was right and standing up to a Govt. that has sold it’s soul to big business, exempt companies, etc. He is a hero of all working people for the COURAGEOUS STAND he took this week. WE SHALL NOT BE MOVED!
So you think it is a worker’s right to steal time from and lie to his employer while also forging fradulent documents? You also think it is a worker’s right to drive a public transportation vehicle drunk while paying passengers are on board?
Where do you lot come up with this bullsh*t logic of yours?
Don’t you have any sort of standards and morals in life?
How come you get more rights than the rest of us?
So what you’re saying is that the union was RIGHT to defend a man who, for all intents and purposes, should have been arrested for FRAUD????? Furbert did what was RIGHT? The union called an illegal strike and that was RIGHT?
Must be a bus driver!
NEVER!!!!!
Lemme go find a trash can so I can vomit…once again, ashamed to be Bermudian…
Bermuda’s future is in the toilet if people are allowed to get away with this type of rubbish. Lister – you let us down very badly today. You sent a message to all lazy and dishonest Bermudians that it is OK to be so.
Productivity will now fall still further, Bermudians will be able to compete even less than they now. And you wonder why people don’t want to hire locals.
The perception is that they are lazy & dishonest – that’s why. Today you just proved the point Terry!!
This whole situation is pitiful. However, how many people are just going to continue to get on the busses when they start back up? People need to get a spine and shut them down in protest. It worked in Montgomery in the 60′s and it can work now if people would simply stand up to the wrong that is being done. Chris Furbert needs to be fired. Pitiful !!!
This is a load of BS. You just gave the lollipop to the baby throwing a tantrum! Bermuda has lost control of itself!! I’m appauled and disgusted and whatever other adjective you can think of but not surprised at our government. I am also ashamed to be Bermudian. We will never get better. And we wonder why crime and gang violence is out of control. We turn a bling eye everyday and encourage people to do bad because they will get away with it. I’m sick! and I still will no longer catch the bus!!! we should all boycott public transportation it’s obvious this governement doesn’t listen to anything the public has to say nor will they stand up for us as a whole.
Not sure if bling eye was a typo for blind or if it was meant to be bling, but either way….
Type thank you should be *blind eye
Like for real for real??? Dont get it twisted!! The REAL fact is that FRAUD was committed not once but TWICE! Its BS what you think Chris Furbert stands for. THe message he has outright sent that its ok for me to cry foul for committing this act, not only by signing someone else’s name, but also the dude STOLE from government by calling in to work for the day job (which he got paid for) and then going to the night job!! So you mean to tell me that as a private sector citizen I have the right to go to HRC and cry foul for the same dumb sh** if I was already disciplined before and then do it again?? Solidarity I REALLY hope that you are NOT a private or even public sector worker and that you work for your own damn self that way you can go make your own rules and F’up your own business, or better yet have someone you pay do the same dumb isht to you! You lack INTEGRITY and are obviously DISHONEST! I pray that my son never will look up to a role model like you! No wonder we have these damn problems! SMH!!!
So apparently he had a note from his doctor to miss his first job….I am sure if he did at the beginning of this mess he wouldn’t have been fired…this looks like a bit of a story to me…I would like to see a copy of this “doctors note” and if it does exist when was it actually issued and when was it dated….and if they don’t match maybe a doctor should be losing his licence…..
$50 bucks says that the note is forged, too!
wouldn’t bet you my bus fare…
How can a injured groin prevent you from sitting on your ass all day driving a bus, but not painful enough to go and perform more physical labor anyways?
I want that Doctor to write my notes from now on!!
The doctor’s note came in after he was fired.
To solidarity4ever: Your comments are laughable. It’s mentality like yours that’s corrupting this country. This issue is solely about what is honest and right. This man was dishonest and what the union did was not right under any circumstances. You’re promoting the philosophy that no matter what wrong you do, the union will back you. It’s morally and ethically wrong. I repeat – Chris Furbert should be fired.
Amen!
RIDICULOUS!!!! From what I understand, this individual had already been suspended for the same or similar offence. As far as I’m concerned, along with what appears to me MOST of Bermuda, THAT was a warning and the repeat of this offence is dismissal! It really is that simple and it’s a travisty to see that Government do not have policies in place to over-rule the ignorance this Chris Furbert and the BIU.
This employee knew what he was doing and knew the consequences….he’s been through it before!!
So to hear that the government had given up or given in, to know that people, and I mainly mean children and seniors in the multitude were inconvenienced because of the BIU and this strike says alot for Bermuda, and in a negative way. 5 weeks suspension and a years probation, all that tells us is that he gets a 5 week vacation and seeing how this is going….more than likely with with pay!! No….his actions were definately deserving of a dismissal, no questions asked. How much deceit and fradulent activity does this one man have to commit (because you’ve basically told him that he can get away with it with only a lil slap on the wrist) before BIU says “we can help you this time”?
And what about his accomplice? What type of repremandation did he get?
This is why I dont get invovled in Politics and am not the least bit interested in this government…PLP, UBP, NLP or ABC!!! I dont even watch the news or read the newspaper anymore. Why bother??!!
Sorry for the typ-o’s, I’m just in such disbelief and disappointment
Now I’m really ashamed to go out and see ex-pats rushing to their jobs and not be late while while locals can go to work anytime they want knowing we are protected by our government. This is really embarrassing. What would private employers think of this? Will they have the courage to send ex-pats home and hire Bermudians to run the business? This is ridiculous. Sad that sometimes leaders represent the whole island.
What will happen to Bermudians who just want to work and provide for their family??
LEADERS please take the lead!
I AM THINKING OUT THE PROCESS…NO LIPFirstly, the BIU needs to reflect on their representation by Mr. Furbert…United We Stand, Divided We Fall! DUH…when will he be left standing alone because he makes no sense when speaking loudly?Question: Is there a process for someone to be fired? Warning or Suspension? This warning or suspension process should have taken place before the BIU were involved. While reflecting on the case, it wasn’t criminal, no drugs involved, BUT it is against most companies policy to do other jobs when you can’t do the work that you rely on the pay your bills. THIS WAS WRONG! The PLP took a stance and was looking out for the people of the country. Many people rely on the bus service, not to mention students and senior citizens. I am pleased that the decision was overturned by Minister Lister and hopefully the firing process will be carried out the correct way now. It is not wrong what the Minister did! He placed the driver in a position to be conscience of his behaviour at all times with a warning in place already. CHRIS FURBERT SHOULD BE FIRED AND HE NEEDS TO STOP ALL OF THESE SILLY STRIKES AND DISPLAY OF SOLIDARITY THAT IS NONSENCE WHEN IT IS NOT LEGAL OR WORTHY OF DISRUPTING SERVICES THE TAX PAYERS RIGHTLY DESERVE! Chris needs to go…Chris needs to go…WORD!
At no point has a BIU representative stated that the dismissal process was not carried out correctly. In fact Mr. Lister stated that everything was done in accordance with procedures agree to by Government and the BIU. The issue here is that the BIU believes it should protect its members from dismissal. This is incorrect. The BIU should be protecting its members from wrongful dismissal. This fellow pulled this stunt just over a year ago. At that time a decision was made to fire him but they moved to the lesser action of suspension. How could anyone not expect to be fired for committing the same offence, while adding forgery to it, just a year later. Utter foolishness.
Can’t wait till I ride tha bus again!! Um gonna get on it and not pay, eat AND drink on the bus, make an old person stand up tha whole ride to Somerset, write on tha seats and make a whole lotta noise the whole ride THEN curse tha bus driver off when he tells me SHUT UP!!…now let’s see if I can get away with all that!! :{
Well a drunk driving ferry pilot who endangered the lives of a dozen people and a 100 K plus piece of equipment kept his job…..how could they possibly expect to fire a dude who is simply a fraudster
move along people, none of you thought that this government would stick to their guns, they (like the children in the community) are simply meeting the expectations of the country.
Been following this story from the beginning as most of us have. After reading and listening to Minister Listers comments I’m sitting back wondering if we will ever find out who this individual actually is that’s placed the country at risk. I understand the principal… and knowing isn’t to suggest retaliation at all. He did what he did and it was the Union that jumped to his rescue and as a result still has a job after much debate, anger and frustration. Suppose it’s only a matter of time.
has anyone stopped to think that there is more to it that is being said, because it is alot more to this situation it is possible that he could have an injury that could affect him from driving not actually affecting him from doing anything else. now if he is unable to drive would you really want him behind a wheel potentially endangering the lives of us all. think about it just because you cant drive and that is what your main job requires does that mean you should be stuck in your house all day no it doesn’t
Thank you for being playing devils advocate on this one but really if the guy has a condition that prevents him from driving then he shouldn’t be operating period. There is no problem with working two jobs but if you go about it the way he did its wrong no ifs ands or buts about it.
In the famous words of Antoine Dodson “You are so dumb, you are really dumb fo—-real, you are really, really, really, really so dumb, so run and tell that run and tell that homeboy homeboy homeboy”
Terry, in this instance you had the support of the majority of Bermudians – let them strike! We were behind whatever you had to do to make your point. But no!! You were worried about Bermuda being shut down by these gangsters! Let em try. We would have car pooled, shared taxis, done what was necessary to show that lazy lot on the PTB hill that we are not going to take thier lazy crap. YOU HAD US AT ‘NO!’ but you caved and now, you have no one.
@Itcouldhappen – you are so right, we the affected would have rallied around you, Terry. Terry, you could have created a Training Program for New Bus Drivers – Ethics 101, Punctuality 101, Professionalism 101, Courtesy 101 and of course Safe Drivings Skills would be emphasised and taught. Funds to run this program would have been paid from all of the striking bus drivers’ pay. Additionally all taxies, minivans, drivers who wanted to do their part in alleviating the distress caused by the strike, the inconvenience to our Tourists, Residents and children of our country could participate too. They would be free to pick up persons standing at the bus stops. Their mandate would be to pick up anybody at a bus stop and drop them of at any bus stop. The fare would be capped at $3.00. Think about the stimulation of this economy – creating the entrepreneurial spirit and new job opportunities that could result. Maybe the next time these bus drivers might think twice about striking.
From what i have heard is that government is not renewing any more contracts. How many people will be out of work…..500? 600? and they are paying for all these bus drivers to be on an illegal strike.
Honestly – I don’t support the PTB and BIU’s actions – however I also don’t support the fact the Government dropped the ball on properly handeling the situation. From what I understand of the situation – yes the guy was wrong on all counts – but because PTB Management didn’t handle his dismissal correctly – that makes me wonder what type of people are in MANAGEMENT positions that theyd don’t know how to handle gross misconduct properly considering you’ve previously delt with this gentleman prior. An example needs to be made of the Manager who dropped the ball – had they done their job correctly – there would not have been an issue. Dealing with Unionised workers is a tactful thing and you need to make sure your I’s are dotted and your T’s are crossed – Every Manager should know how to follow the proper procedures set out in a Union Handbook on how a worker is delt with in respect to Grievances – I as a common person knows that – SMH is all I have to say – someone in Government needs to be held accountable for this strike because they dropped the ball. The Manager in question should be fired – sorry if this affends anyone.
you can’t get fired from government
Good Day,
I was wondering why would the bus service go on strike to support someone that was using sick days to hussle another job? This would add to their time and work not making it easier for anyone!
I would like to know why this person was reinstated? Is it because we needed a quick fix to the strike? There have to be other ways. This is unfair to 1)the public, 2) the OTHER bus drivers that are truthful and trustworthy, and 3) to our government as they have to think of the best for the WHOLE people, not just what is right to do that one person.
All of it is selfish and unfair. I think we need to ‘rethink’ our public transport.
This just shows the level of maturity our island is at socially. There is no such thing as responsibility for your own actions anymore. This is exactley what has trickled down to the youth of this country. The mentality of not my “child” has mirrored itself with this situation. Not my “colleague” This situation speaks of the Bermuda state of mind period. I have seen this island turn into the garbage pale of a society it is now. People say they care about this country when put in a social environment, but actions like these past few days just prove that wrong. As i said at a social level. Free your mind people….the matrix has you!!
“Resetting the dial” ? oh ok. Business as usual in the affirmative. I thought all the women in Cabinet and now in upper echelons of the civil service compliments of Ms. Cox meant all change? Can’t blame this one Dr. What’s-his-name. See Ms. Cox, leadership soils everybody, especially those who profess to be super-clean.
This whole story is too bazarre to be believable. Surely someone is just making all this up?
If only….but apparently, this is the new Bermuda…
How many times do you have to be told people. It’s like Wikileaks…….It will come out but all that will be left are a few spanish pigs………….
Sorta like the Pembroke ‘denial’ runs from Mills Creek to the freeking dump.
Only in a weak banana republic would a government and the people be held hostage by a black panther trade union.
Absolutely pathetic.
My brother this and my brother that says furbert, my brother is bow lazy corrupt.
This island is going down like titanic.
Wow, Someone please school the Cederbrige students. The next time they are caught on the bus with weed, all they need to do is go on strike and call Chris Fubert…
I cannot believe this man called in sick, worked another job, commited an act of fraud, was fired and rewarded his job back from the Government. What is going on Bermuda we are in serious times right now and allowing this to go on is not right.
If that is the case close Magistrates and the Supreme courts and let my People Go.
If you commited a crime dont call Liz Christopher. Dont call Charles Richardson CALL CHRIS FURBERT he will get you off.
1800-CHRISFURB
Terry Lister and Chris Furbert- you are part of the problem that is dragging Bermuda to hell. Your failure to act and demonstrate strong moral and natural justice in this case is the same as those who live next door to the gun toting gangsters but ‘hear and see no evil’.
What is your definition of leadership?
How can you expect the young to grow up good if they learn from you it’s ok if they are lazy, dishonest and feckless ‘cos they’ll get away with it?
If International Business does eventually clear out of here you are going to have the most gigantic problem on your hands….
I get the bus to work every day, and every Thursday our bus driver is somewhere between 6-9 minutes late when we are only the second stop on her route, the first being about 90 seconds away. I watch her cough up her phlegm and spit it out of the window whilst driving along. Despite many of us repeatedly complaining about this driver, nothing has been done. Now I understand why.
The ministry of transport should develop a plan for the next time this happens so there are alternative drivers for the busses such as the Regiment, Bermuda Police Service or other trained individuals. So the next time the Union considers going on strike they will have to consider the fact that they wont be missed.
I think some one needs to tell Mr Furbert and the union that such antiquated senseless “tactics” make no sense in the 21st century. Nowhere in the western world would a complete road transit system be yanked because of the deception, selfishness and criminal act (forgery) of one person. This was a matter for management to deal with, which should not have involved the whole community. Why won’t Mr Furbert simply admit that he got it all wrong and sincerely apologise for inconveniencing the public. At this time in Bermuda’s history such short-sighted actions can do nothing but yield further resentment.
@Unbelieveable…
You got that spot on.
To quote good ol’ Ab Lincoln: “You can fool some of the people all of the time, and all of the people some of the time, but you can not fool all of the people all of the time.”
I wonder if Mr Furbert visits Bernews.com!
If yes, then surely he is aware of the public’s sentiment regarding his latest act of stupidity. But then again, he probably doesn’t own a computer, which, after thinking about it, would explain his 60′s mentality.
If he does own a computer than maybe we should all find out his email address and bombard him with a few thousand emails voicing our disgust.
A few questions:
Of all the unionized bus drivers, were there any who thought that Furbert’s position was wrong?
Were there any who decided to stand up against him, break the ranks, and go to work?
Now I don’t know much about the workings of the unions in Bermuda, but are ALL bus drivers unionized? If no, then was anything preventing THEM from going to work?
Perhaps someone out there can enlighten me on the above questions
Parents! It’s your reponsibility to set the record straight! For the past three days they have been shown by some of the leaders in this country that it is alright to lie (sick note), it is okay to falsify documents (signing someone else’s signature) and that if you stomp your feet and pout(illegal strike) than you will get what you want! Please let your children know that this story comes with a warning…PLEASE DO NOT TRY THIS AT HOME!
I do hope that Minister Liste realises that he has set a precident with his decision…If another Government worker does this or something similar you can”t possibly expect them to accept being fired??
WOW is all I can say…it is true…you CAN work for government and do whatever you like…
Sadly, it may be true that the time for the BIU has passed and it may need to fade away to make room for another organization that is actually going to do what is right and best for its membership.
James, go back in history and see how many times the BIU has brought Bermuda to it’s knees. How many times they have inconvinienced Bermudians, tourists, and all manner of business.
Too many skelatons in their closet. Thats why this latest incident happened and unfurled the way it did.
All you have to do is look at the makeup of the Union and the PLP and see who is still there from the 60-70′s, their history and you may get a hint of they they throw each other under the bus, jack it up and remove the victim.
You know the saying what goes around comes around? Irony is, they will be gone with no thought about the circles they created.
Why waste my breath. A year, thats all. Thats all I give it. Mark my words.
You’re singing to the choir Terry!
At least where the BIU is concerned. I still hold out hope for the PLP to get and do better for ALL of Bermuda.