Transdev released a blatantly misleading, distorted from reality statement yesterday after Fairfax Connector workers’ strike over unfair labor practices committed by the company commenced. The statement attempted to rewrite history to paint the contractor in a better light as well as inflated their contract proposals. 

The latest proposal that the company provided to the Union in late January did include improved wage increases but the dollar amount for wages and economic benefits provided by Transdev is inflated by several thousands of dollars. In addition, the contract proposal yet again did not include true retirement security. The phrase “over 70% of ATU 689 operators would be eligible…” does not guarantee that dedicated and hardworking workers would receive the statement moment even if it was true. Time after time, Transdev has demonstrated their conniving ability to nickel and dime workers out of benefits and wages at every opportunity. Local 689 has called out Transdev for the piss-poor behavior before and will continue to do so.

Trandev also oversimplifies the purpose of the 40 hour guarantee. This contract provision is necessary to ensure that workers get 40 hours of scheduled work and pay at 8 hours per day/5 days per week. Under the current expired contract, vague wording has allowed for Transdev’s standard operating procedure to force workers to come into work on a 6th day in order to get 40 hours. 

The 401(K) match system will not work and it is a continuation of a long-standing practice that has resulted in the majority of Fairfax Connector workers having zero retirement. It also allows Transdev to pocket extra money from the County and taxpayers instead of providing retirement security and stability. The Union’s key goal is to end this shameful practice that harms its members and undermines the public. 

The Union is still owed a response from Transdev on its latest proposal provided to the company earlier this month. The most recent bargaining session on Friday, February 16 was unfruitful and the Fairfax Connector workers in attendance walked away insulted despite the presence of federal mediators. Workers are on strike over unfair labor practices committed by Transdev. Transdev has repeatedly failed to bargain in good faith. Transdev has engaged in regressive bargaining. Transdev has failed to provide lawfully requested financial information to the Union during the contract talks. Lastly Trandev conducted unlawful surveillance of its employees during the strike authorization vote conducted December 27, 2023. 

The Union and Fairfax Connector workers are not fooled by Transdev and neither should the public be.