Gay Partners Refused Free Travel Passes (Press, 11 February 1988)

On 11 February 1988, a dispute emerged in Auckland regarding the Auckland Regional Authority (A.R.A.) bus drivers' benefits for their partners. The Auckland Tramways’ Union reported that gay partners of bus drivers were being denied free travel passes, a benefit that was automatically provided to heterosexual staff members, including those who were married or in de facto relationships. Union secretary Bob Masefield highlighted the case of a lesbian bus driver whose application for a travel pass was turned down because she was not married. He pointed out that the A.R.A. justified its refusal by claiming that homosexual relationships did not have legal recognition. Masefield argued that, thus, this distinction was unfair and violated principles of equal rights, as all drivers should be entitled to the same benefits regardless of their sexual orientation. In response to the situation, the union proposed that the A.R.A. introduce an "associate pass" system. This pass could be utilised not only by partners of the drivers but also by their children or parents, thereby broadening the eligibility beyond just heterosexual relationships. A.R.A. bus committee chairman Jack McCorquindale refrained from further comment on the matter, citing "various differences of opinion." He indicated that discussions would take place between the union and A.R.A. officials later in the month to address the issue. The union's complaint has also been lodged with the Human Rights Commission, underlining the illegal nature of providing such benefits based on marital status.

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