Unite has announced a co-ordinated strike in Greater Manchester this month, with Bee Network services set to see severe disruption across the region.
Over 2,000 members of the union are expected to strike between 19–22 September as a result of a dissatisfactory pay increase offer.
Around 1,000 Stagecoach drivers based across the Oldham, Stockport and Middleton depots have rejected an offer of 3.5%, as well as 1,000 Metroline Manchester members working at the Sharston, Hyde Road, Ashton and Wythenshawe depots who have also turned down an offer of 3.5%.
Workers at both companies have stated that the offer ‘doesn’t address years of low pay, especially given the ongoing cost of living crisis’.
Additionally, 110 members from First Bus Rochdale have rejected a pay increase of 6%, with members stating that the offer ‘does not go far enough to address the fact workers there have had years of being paid less than their counterparts at other companies and are the lowest paid in the region’.
Unite General Secretary Sharon Graham said:Our members have agreed this is unacceptable and have unequivocally voted to strike. They have Unite’s full backing throughout the whole of this dispute.
Unite Regional Officer Colin Hayden said:With so many drivers across the Bee Network walking out at once, this will be a highly disruptive strike that will bring parts of Greater Manchester to a standstill.
We know residents will be disappointed to hear of potential action, but this is entirely the fault of the employers involved our members feel they have no choice but to walk out to make their voices heard.
Unite remains open to negotiations with the bus companies who need to return to the negotiating table with an improved offer.
