Bus drivers at Stagecoach call off major strike - but First drivers will still walk out

Strike action by Stagecoach bus drivers has been called off after they accepted a new pay deal. Unite members voted to accept the deal which will see pay increases of approximately 16 per cent for both new and established drivers.

The new deal, which is well above the current rate of inflation of nine percent, also includes pay rises for weekend and bank holiday work and follows an aggressive campaign by Unite on behalf of its members across Greater Manchester.

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While industrial action by 1,000 Stagecoach drivers is now cancelled, First Manchester drivers are still heading to the picket line as Unite claim the employer has refused to come to the table with an improved pay offer acceptable to members. Strikes by First drivers are scheduled for September 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th and 8th.

Sharon Graham, Unite general secretary, said: “This victory shows there is power in a union. Unite has fought tirelessly for a better pay deal for our members. Our relentless focus on the jobs, pay and conditions for the bus drivers at Stagecoach, allied with their grit and determination, has led to this important win.”

Unite north-west regional officer, Colin Hayden, added: “I’m delighted for our members who have fought tirelessly for a better pay deal – they should be congratulated on their resolve. While Stagecoach drivers will head back to work, the pressure is now on First Manchester to head back to the negotiating table with an improved offer – our members there will be looking at the victory secured here and demanding the same.”