South Yorkshire bus drivers to strike, confirms Unite
22nd October 2009
Unite members working for First South Yorkshire Ltd across South
Yorkshire will take part in two 24 hour strikes in a row over
annual pay rises starting tomorrow (Friday, 23rd October) and
continuing on Monday, 26th October 2009.
This follows First Group’s nationwide imposition of a zero per
cent pay deal. Unite is accusing First Group, of which First South
Yorkshire Ltd is its Yorkshire subsidiary, of using the recession
as ‘an excuse to freeze pay’.
Over 1,300 bus drivers in Sheffield, Doncaster and Rotherham are
set to start the 24 hour strikes tomorrow (Friday, 23rd October)
and Monday, 26th October 2009. All bus routes from these garages
will be affected.
Unite is prepared to speak with First Bus at any time to resolve
the dispute.
Steve Clark, Unite regional industrial organiser, said: “The
determination among our members is resolute. We will continue
strike action until First South Yorkshire Ltd do the right thing
and engage in meaningful talks. These workers are already
struggling in the recession to support their families. They need
support from their employer and this insulting zero per cent pay
offer is simply not acceptable
“This decision to impose a pay freeze is based on greed. First
Group PLC has made millions of pounds in profit this year, despite
the recession, yet the company is refusing to play fair by the very
employees who helped deliver these profits.
“We are urging First Bus to put a fair pay offer on the table to
resolve this dispute and put an end to strike action.”
First Group is facing industrial action at a number of garages
around England as a consequence of its zero per cent pay
policy.
ENDS
For further information contact Steve Clark on 07980 710031
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