Codiac Transpo workers to review latest offer

Ameeting to discuss the City of Moncton's latest offer likely won't result in Codiac Transpo buses being back on the streets any time soon, says the president of the union representing locked-out transit workers.

The latest offer from the city is still too low said George Turple, president of the Amalgamated Transit Union Local 1290.

But the approximately80 union members, who have beenlocked outfor almost 14 weeks, will be deciding for themselves if that is the case, he said.

"We'll go over the last round of negotiations with the membership. Most already know it has taken place, and what the offer is. We'll take it from there. So we'll look at it, but I don't actually believe it requires a vote, but they'll decide that," said Turple.

Meanwhile, stranded citizens aren't interested in the details. They just want to get back on the bus.

Josette Whalen is two months pregnant and was a regular bus user until service stopped. She said she doesn't want to be walking long distances in the snow.

"Quite frankly, I'm disgusted by both sides. I think it's just a money grab for both of them. Bottom line, there's got to be a compromise somewhere, even if you have to pay a little more to take the bus, whatever, so be it," said Whalen.

No new talks are scheduled.