Unite union has said that around 430 Stagecoach drivers will take strike action for six weeks over a dispute in pay as last minute pay talks failed.
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Unite said that the drivers were offered an “unacceptable” 4% pay offer, this was rejected by union members.
In the West of Scotland there will be “widespread and prolonged” strike action affecting bus service, Unite said.
The strike action will take place on 26 May, 2 and 6 June, then there will be six weeks of strikes starting on 9 June until 21 July.
Siobhan McCready, Unite industrial officer, said, “Stagecoach West Scotland have not improved their pay offer in six months.
“The drivers are being asked to fund a pay rise by working longer hours, taking longer unpaid breaks and losing a week of annual leave.
“This is simply unacceptable, and it will not be tolerated by Unite.
“Widespread and prolonged industrial action is set to hit bus services across the west of Scotland because this company doesn’t seem capable of listening to its workers.
“It’s not right that the drivers are the lowest paid across the whole of the Stagecoach group. Our members deserve a fair rate and that’s what we are determined to get for them.”
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said, “The company can end this dispute at any moment by putting forward a fair offer.”
A Stagecoach spokesperson said, “Following further discussions with Unite, our staff across Dumfries and Galloway have accepted a two-year pay deal that will see their hourly rate of pay increase by nearly 12% (11.8%).
“Our Ayrshire staff have, however, rejected this same offer of 11.8%, and despite our best efforts to reach an agreement and avoid industrial action we must now focus on putting practical plans in place to support our customers during this challenging period.
“We have a crucial role in helping people stay connected with their communities.
“On Monday May 26, Monday June 2 and Friday June 6, services will operate as normal from our Cumbernauld, Dumfries and Stranraer depots, with reduced services from our Ayrshire depots.
“The details of the services being operated can be found on our website.
“We urge Unite to reconsider its position and return to the negotiating table. Our commitment remains to reach a fair and sustainable agreement – one that supports our employees while ensuring the long-term viability of our services across west Scotland.”
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