Passengers to be hit by bus drivers' strike

Photo: Tim Bradley

Bus stop at Mumps

BUS users in Oldham are set to be hit by massive disruption tomorrow as drivers go on strike, causing a number of services to be cancelled.

First Manchester says the walkouts are "unnecessary and unjustified" after being advised by trade union Unite that bus drivers at its Oldham and Queens Road, Manchester, depots have confirmed that they will go on a one-day strike

Oldham, Manchester, Rochdale, Salford and Trafford will be hit, with 50 services either cancelled or reduced.

Unite has said the strike revolves around a dispute regarding changes to conditions, agreements and bargaining procedures, which First Manchester denies.

The company says it is "still seeking clarification around the specific issues of the dispute and what resolution Unite require to bring the dispute to an end".

Around six Oldham bus services - including the 557 Blue Coat School-Oldham - will be cancelled.

Major routes such as the 83 Sholver-Manchester Piccadilly and the 184 Huddersfield/Uppermill-Manchester Piccadilly will be "very limited".

Other bus companies have agreed to take over some services.

In an attempt to try to resolve the dispute, First Manchester has been in discussions with Acas.

The company said the conciliation service hasoffered to convene a meeting at its earliest opportunity on May 24.

As this is the proposed day of strike action, Acas put a proposal to Unite to postpone the action, but this was rejected. Adrian Worsfold, director of operations for First Manchester, said: "I'm very disappointed Unite are going ahead with strike action, despite our efforts to avoid industrial action. This will bring massive disruption to customers, especially those in education, work and those needing to keep appointments, as well as causing personal hardship to our driving team.

"This action is unnecessary and unjustified and we urge Unite to explain what resolution they are seeking to resolve the trade dispute. We ask Unite to call off this day of action and join us around the table with Acas and to clarify what they are seeking to bring their dispute to an end."

First Manchester is reviewing contingency plans. For more information about ticket refunds and whether your bus service will be affected, visit www.firstgroup.com/greater-manchester.