Oldham drivers keep flying their flags as bus strikes continue

Striking First Manchester bus drivers have been out in force again in Oldham this morning (Monday).

First Manchester has previously insisted that its generous 15.2% pay increase will make its bus drivers at the Oldham depot some of the best-paid in the region.

The operator has also refuted claims by Unite that the offer is ‘subpar’, or that there are problems with driver shortages.

Further strikes are set to taking place today (July 24(, July 25, 28 and 31 and August 2, 4, 7, 10 and 11.

Ian Humphreys, Managing Director of First Manchester, said: “We have been in discussions about pay since February and amended our ‘no strings’ offer to bring forward a further increase in pay to this October and this was rejected.

“This would have made our drivers some of the best-paid in the region.”

For union 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.”

Regional officer Colin Hayden added: “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.”

First Manchester has insisted it provides among the best terms and conditions in the sector, including its sick pay scheme and pension benefits.

The operator also states that it is fully staffed with drivers at the Oldham depot.

Mr Humphreys added: “Announcing further strike dates is not the way to get this situation resolved.

“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.”

First Manchester has confirmed plans to operate some limited services on planned strike dates from today.

The following routes will be running:

- 409 every 15 mins

- 82 every hour

- 425 every 30 mins

- 426 every 60 mins

A flat fare of £2 for adults and £1 for children will be charged.

School services will continue to operate during strikes together with the Vantage service from Bolton along the guided busway through Leigh and Atherton to Manchester and 184 service between Oldham and Huddersfield.

Tickets purchased on a strike day will not be refunded and customers are advised to check if a service is operating.

Customers with pre-bought tickets for strike dates will be given a refund or replacement tickets to use for future travel.

Further information is available on a dedicated page of the First Manchester website here

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