New Brunswick Clarifies School Bus Repair Issues Following Union Negotiations

Post by : Mina Rahman

The government of New Brunswick has announced that it has successfully resolved the recent delays in school bus repairs. However, lingering questions persist regarding the management and communication of the situation.

Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Chuck Chiasson acknowledged that the issues raised last month have been addressed. Initially, the department cited a lack of licensed mechanics as a reason for the inability to send backup buses for breakdowns and a limited repair schedule restricted to normal business hours.

However, Chiasson clarified on Tuesday that although mechanics could be called in during evenings and weekends, no technicians were present at repair shops unless specifically summoned. The department has been in talks with the union representing school bus mechanics to ensure that compensation is available for standby service, ensuring that assistance is always accessible.

A significant change in communication was also revealed by the minister. Previously, the dispatch of replacement buses was halted due to uncertainties about whether mechanics could legally operate them, given the requirement for a special licence. Following a definitive legal opinion that confirmed the mechanics' capability to handle school buses, the service has resumed to normal standards.

When questioned about the contradictory explanations from the department, Chiasson admitted that there had been confusion and unclear messaging surrounding the issue. He refrained from assigning blame but recognized that communication could have been more precise.

Despite Chiasson’s portrayal of the incident as a minor issue exaggerated in severity, opposition representatives disagreed with this view.

Interim leader of the Progressive Conservative Party, Glen Savoie, criticized the government’s approach, calling it incompetent. He condemned the inconsistent explanations, asserting that families deserved to be properly informed rather than misled.

MLA Megan Mitton from the Green Party highlighted the necessity for trust and reliability in the transportation system for families. She stressed that the recent chaos was concerning for parents and suggested that the government now seems to be altering its narrative on the issues encountered.

Meanwhile, the union representing school bus mechanics, CUPE, confirmed that significant progress has been made in discussions with the province. The department has agreed on a five percent wage increase linked to acquiring truck and transport certification, a strategic move aimed at attracting and retaining skilled mechanics. Union leaders welcomed the acknowledgment of ongoing staffing challenges but asserted that further wage enhancements may be required to fully restore service capacity.