Union Slams KMB For Huge Cut In Driver Training

The secretary-general of the Confederation of Trade Unions, Lee Cheuk-yan, has accused KMB of jeopardising public safety by drastically cutting training hours for new drivers in recent years.

He also said the Transport Department was negligent for allowing the practice.

He said previously new drivers had four weeks of training, but this has now been cut to just one week for those already holding a licence and 18 days for those without a licence.

He said the company took the step due to a shortage in manpower, and urged the management to revoke the arrangement.

"It shows the attitude of the management. They are not concerned about training... and they want to push people out to work without proper training.

"This again is total mismanagement on the part of the bus company and negligence on behalf of the Transport Department."

KMB refused to comment on Lee's allegations. Its management has been under the spotlight following a deadly crash in Tai Po last month in which 19 people were killed and many more badly injured. It has also been criticised for sacking several staff who went on a four-hour strike over pay and conditions. The dismissals have have since been put on hold while the company reviews the decision.

The company's handling of staff matters even drew criticism from the Chief Executive, Carrie Lam, who said there was "room for improvement".