The company announced this week that a revised pay offer has been accepted by staff, lifting the threat of further walkouts and restoring certainty for passengers.
Agreement brings relief after months of disruption
Industrial action by Unite members had caused widespread disruption to services in Swansea, Neath Port Talbot, Llanelli and beyond, with strikes stretching into the autumn and winter.
Several rounds of negotiations saw offers rejected, strikes postponed, and services repeatedly thrown into doubt. At one stage, Unite confirmed action would continue into January, escalating concerns for commuters and local councils.
The breakthrough came after First Cymru tabled an improved offer, which has now been accepted.
First Cymru statement
Doug Claringbold, Managing Director of First Bus Cymru, said:
“We are pleased that the revised offer has been accepted by colleagues and that the threat of further strike action has been lifted. This agreement provides certainty for our teams and our customers, and enables us to move forward together.
“Our priority now is to restore confidence and deliver the reliable, consistent services that our communities depend on every day. We want to thank our customers for their patience during this period of uncertainty, and we look forward to welcoming back anyone who may have been affected by the recent disruption.”
Looking ahead
The end of the strikes will be welcomed by thousands of passengers who rely on First Cymru buses daily for work, school and essential travel. Local leaders, including Neath Port Talbot Council, had previously voiced concern about the impact of prolonged disruption on communities and businesses.
With the agreement now in place, attention turns to rebuilding trust and ensuring services run smoothly through the busy winter period.
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