Back pay row reignites walkouts
Unite the Union said its members had “overwhelmingly” voted to reject the latest offer, which did not include back pay. The union had paused strike action planned for 22 October in good faith, but confirmed that walkouts will now go ahead.
Strikes are scheduled for 30 and 31 October, and 1 and 2 November, with further action planned for 5 to 8 November. Unite has also warned that members are prepared to escalate the dispute into the Christmas period if necessary.
Union accuses company of “profiteering”
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said:
“First is guilty of trying to deny workers the back pay they are fully entitled to, in order to line its own pockets.”
The union claims First Cymru pays some of the lowest wages in the industry, and that new recruits are placed on a lower rate for 12 months, creating a “two-tier workforce.”
Unite also pointed to First Group’s latest financial results, which show £200 million in profit and a £3 million pay package for its chief executive.
Regional coordinating officer Alan McCarthy added:
“Communities across South Wales will now face bus chaos, but their anger should be directed at profiteering bus bosses who are seeking to short-change our members.”
Company says offer was “above inflation”
In a statement, First Cymru said it was “disappointed” by the rejection and warned customers to expect disruption.
“We have listened to Unite member feedback and made several offers to try to settle this dispute… Unfortunately, rather than work with us to find a resolution, Unite has decided to press ahead with strikes.”
The company said its door remains open to negotiation and promised updates on affected services via its website.
Pay gap and Real Living Wage comparisons
Unite said the recent announcement of the Real Living Wage uplift to £13.45 had further highlighted the gap between First Cymru drivers and their counterparts elsewhere.
The union claims drivers in Wales are earning up to £3 per hour less than those at other operators, including First Bus in Bristol.
What happens next
Strike action will begin Thursday 30 October, with services across Swansea, Neath Port Talbot, Llanelli and Carmarthenshire expected to be affected.
Passengers are advised to check First Cymru’s website for service updates and plan alternative travel where possible.
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Will anybody notice that there is a strike on? Half of First’s buses don’t turn-up anyway…