Strikes at bus maker end

Unite, the UK’s leading union, and the producer of mass-transit busses Optare have confirmed the end of the industrial action taken by Unite’s members at the firm’s manufacturing plant in Sherburn in Elmet, Leeds.

The industrial action started in October when over 100 of the bus maker’s workers whose hourly rates are significantly less than those of staff at comparable firms voted 73% in favour of strike action.

However today the two parties have confirmed that following comprehensive discussions, they both recognise that some form of pay settlement is important but at this time of considerable uncertainty, accept that it is not currently possible.

Unite and Optare have agreed to work together on a payment mechanism to address this, ready for implementation once recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic is clear and future orders have come in. They have also committed to building a deeper relationship that will deliver for the Optare workforce and for the sustainable future of the manufacturing operations in Yorkshire.

The two organisations also welcome real progress on the UK prime minister’s pledge to purchase 4,000 British made zero emission buses. With delivery on this promise set to provide Unite’s members with fresh optimism and create an opportunity to grow Optare’s workforce in the future.

Unite national officer for automotive Steve Bush said: “Unite is pleased that this dispute has been suspended, with Optare agreeing to work with the union to implement a future pay rise and other benefits for our members.

“We look forward to working constructively Optare to ensure the firm’s, and our members’, continuing success.”