Metrolink staff accept improved pay offer, but First Manchester bus drivers to strike
The threat of industrial action on the Manchester Metrolink system has receded after staff accepted an improved pay offer.
The 600 plus members of trade union Unite at the company accepted an offer of a 6.5% pay increase and a £1,000 one-off payment. The deal is worth more than nine per cent for many of the workers.
Unite general secretary, Sharon Graham, said: “Our members at Metrolink, by standing together in unity, left the employer with no option but to return to the negotiating table and make an improved offer.
“This is a further example of how Unite’s total focus on the jobs, pay and conditions is paying direct financial dividends for its members.”
The workforce had overwhelmingly voted for strike action which would have taken place over the weekend of June 10-11. However, following the improved offer, the strike was suspended to allow the workers to vote on the deal.
Unite regional officer, Colin Hayden, said: “This was an important dispute and Unite will build on this settlement in future pay negotiations with Metrolink.”
However, around 360 bus drivers employed by First Manchester will strike in July over an “inadequate” pay offer, said Unite.
The union says drivers at First Manchester earn less than other bus companies in the area. First Manchester drivers earn £13.50 an hour, while Go North West pays £14.37, Diamond Bus £14.30 and Stagecoach £14. The difference in wages is expected to increase as the other companies implement their yearly pay increases.
The workers have rejected a 7.4 per cent pay offer backdated to April with a further 3.4 per cent in October.
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.”
The drivers voted in favour of industrial action by 96% with a turnout of 75%. Strikes affecting First Manchester services in Rochdale, Oldham, Manchester and Ashton will take place on July 3, 4, 7, 10, 11 and 13. More strike action will be scheduled if the dispute is not resolved.
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.”
