Strike impacting trash pickup in three South Shore towns

MARSHFIELD, Mass. — Labor Day weekend often leads to a lot of trash. A strike will complicate Tuesday's scheduled pickup for several communities.

Because of the Labor Day holiday, negotiations were put on hold, but they are scheduled to continue Tuesday. Trash pickup in some communities will also resume Tuesday, but who will be driving the trucks is still in question.

As union trash haulers with Republic Services strike in Marshfield, the garbage is piling up.

The 24 drivers recently unionized with the Teamsters Local 25 after they say they learned other workers within the company receive better benefits.

"They get good health care, good wages and a pension, and we don't have that here," said Michael DeVito.

The drivers have been on strike since Thursday.

"We drive big trucks, they have hydraulics, we have arms that put the trash up and some have guys in the back that work, and it's dangerous," DeVito said. "We could get hit by cars or hit cars, so we have to be very skilled behind the wheel.

"So the guys that can do it, I think, should be compensated right."

The drivers cover not only Marshfield, but also Abington and Rockland.

Marshfield sent out DPW workers to pick up trash and as the strike continues. Residents can bring their trash directly to the town's transfer station. Both Rockland and Abington residents were told Republic Services would continue with pickups, but they would be delayed.

Some residents we spoke with said they'd rather the trash stay if that means supporting the workers.

"I can understand it's not the most glorified job ever," said Joseph Bois of Rockland. "As long as people are taking care of it and the trash isn't blowing around the street, I don't see an issue of going on strike to get what they need or want."

It's unclear if Republic Services is bringing in additional drivers to fill the void left by the striking workers or if they plan on crossing the picket line at the Marshfield location.

In a statement, the company said it plans to resume trash collection Tuesday morning "as long as it is safe to do so," and thanked residents for their patience in dealing with what it described as a "temporary stoppage."

Republic Services tells Boston 25 News "Republic Services of Marshfield is encouraged that Teamsters Local 25 has ended its strike, which ultimately targeted the communities we serve.  We will share more information when it is available."

Cox Media Group