Bus strike will continue after negotiations fail

Fri, 31 May 2013

Bus drivers will continue to strike over the TT period after further negotiations failed.

Government met with Unite the Union yesterday to try and bring an end to the industrial action.

Drivers have been on strike for almost a week because of a long running dispute over changes to their terms and conditions.

The Department of Community, Culture and Leisure says the sticking point is an increase in the time drivers are required to drive for – rising from 3 hours 45 minutes to 4 hours 30 minutes.

It has rubbished claims from the union that the increased driving time could create safety issues saying the union finds it acceptable when drivers are being paid a premium rate at weekends and on bank holidays.

Contingency plans are in place and chief executive Nick Black has this message for visitors:

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