Union predicts travel chaos as double bus strikes loom

Union leaders have predicted travel chaos for Manchester commuters as drivers from both First Manchester and Stagecoach strike for nine days in August and September

The action is over what Unite the Union describes as “derisory” pay offers from the respective companies.

Industrial action will involve around 1,500 drivers during a period which will see a Manchester United home game at Old Trafford, a concert by Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds at Whythenshawe Park, Pride weekend, and the return of schools.

Strikes will be taking place on August Bank Holiday weekend, 25, 26, 27 and 28, as well as September 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8.

Industrial action is already under way by Stagecoach drivers beginning today (August 11) and lasting four days.

Unite general secretary, Sharon Graham, said: “First and Stagecoach pay their workers derisory wages, yet their profits continue to soar. Not only are the drivers struggling with rising living costs, the low wages paid by these companies are causing staffing shortages its workers are bearing the brunt. This cannot go on.”

Unite regional officer, Colin Hayden, said: “This dispute will bring chaos to one side of Manchester.

“First Manchester and Stagecoach need to put forward offers that meet the workers’ expectations. They can both clearly afford to.”

Lee Wasnidge, managing director of Stagecoach Manchester, said: “Our offer would make Stagecoach drivers amongst the best-paid in the region with excellent terms and conditions. It is, therefore, incredibly disappointing that our above rate of inflation deal, has been rejected.”

Ian Humphreys, managing director of First Manchester, said: “Continued industrial action will be damaging to everyone and cause yet more severe disruption to the daily lives of our customers who rely on the bus to get to work, education and for appointments.”