First bus drivers in Manchester are set to go on strike next month after rejecting an 'inadequate' pay offer.
Around 360 bus drivers employed by First will take industrial action over six days in July over concerns over chronic staff shortages and overworking after drivers voted in favour of industrial action by 96 per cent with a turnout of 75 per cent.
Unite say the rejected offer of a 7.4 per cent pay rise is not enough to make up for soaring living costs or help tackle staff shortages that 'are making our members’ working lives a misery'. First Group said they are 'disappointed' by the decision, which they said will be 'damaging to everyone'.
Strikes affecting First Manchester services in Rochdale, Oldham, Manchester and Ashton will take place on July 3, 4, 7, 10, 11 and 13, with Unite adding that more action will be scheduled if the dispute is not resolved.
Union bosses claim drivers at First Manchester earn less than other bus companies in the area, while recent reports show that operating profits increased by more than £6 million to £226.8 million.
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “First Manchester’s profits continue to soar but the rates it pays its drivers are the worst in the region. The company’s inadequate pay offer is not enough to make up for sky high living costs or to plug the staff shortages that are making our members’ working lives a misery.
“Unite defends our members’ jobs, pay and conditions to the hilt and First Manchester’s drivers will receive all the support they need as they strike for a fair pay rise.”
Workers have rejected a 7.4 per cent pay offer backdated to April with a further 3.4 per cent in October.
Unite regional officer Colin Hayden said: “Our members do not want to strike but they have been left with no option due First Manchester’s greed. There is still time to avoid industrial action but for that to happen the company must put forward an offer our members will accept.”
Ian Humphreys, Managing Director of First Manchester, said “We are disappointed at the decision to announce potential strike action in Oldham.
“This will be damaging to everyone and cause severe disruption to the daily lives of our customers who rely on the bus to get to work, education and for appointments.
“The management team at First Manchester have been working hard to agree a pay settlement and have made a substantial offer. Discussions with Unite continue and we are focused on finalising an agreement as quickly as possible to avoid any industrial action.”
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