Central Coast Council is considering invoking penalty clauses in its contract with local waste contractor, Remondis if the strike by garbage truck drivers continues.

Remondis is contracted by council to provide waste services, including regular bin collection, until January 31, 2018.

Remondis directly employ the current garbage drivers and are responsible for their wages and conditions.  The Transport Workers Union (TWU) lodged the intention to take strike action in the Fair Work Commission, against Remondis, not council.

Council’s CEO Mr Rob Noble said he was tired of the blame game and wants Remondis to get on with what it is paid to do and pick up the bins.

“This protracted action is starting to take its toll on everyone – particularly our residents who see rubbish piling up in the streets.

“We have a broader responsibility to provide the best possible services to our 331,000 residents.

“The new waste tender hasn’t even been released yet so there is plenty of time for workers to secure their conditions.

“In the meantime our residents are being made to pay for this ill-advised action.

“They need to get to work and pick up the bins - that is what they are paid to do.”

Council has moved to lessen the impact on residents by opening up its three waste facilities at Buttonderry, Kincumber and Woy Woy for the free drop off of domestic waste.

“We know this won’t be convenient for everyone but it is a step we can take now at our expense until the backlog is cleared.”

Residents should leave their bin out on the kerb until it is collected by Remondis.