Buses will ‘grind to a halt’ as Translink pay offer rejected

The industrial action at Translink, that was originally due to take place last month, was put on hold to allow a ballot on a revised pay offer to take place.

However, the union has now announced that GMB members have turned down the offer – meaning drivers, cleaners and shunters will stage a walkout for seven days from May 17 to May 23.

The Unite union members have also voted to strike, Translink said.

GMB regional organiser Peter Macklin, said: “Translink bus workers have today once again shown their anger and frustration with the company.

“They were proud to carry out their duty during the pandemic, despite potentially putting themselves and their families lives at risk. Now they need some help to tackle the crushing cost of living crisis they face, but bosses aren’t listening.

“The dispute, which affects bus drivers, cleaners and shunters will close the entire bus network within Northern Ireland. It will be a complete shutdown.”

A Translink spokesperson said: “We are disappointed to learn that Unite and GMB bus driver trade unions, by a relatively slim margin, have voted to take unprecedented industrial action.

“Following extensive negotiations, we made a further substantial offer for 2021, including an enhanced package of conditions, that we believe is fair and reasonable.

“At this stage, having exhausted all options, we will start to take the difficult decisions in preparing for the impact of the strike action. However, we remain committed to working with the unions to avert this action.”

The spokesperson added: “We would welcome the opportunity to engage with unions to cover school duties, so that the wellbeing of schoolchildren can remain a priority, particularly as many enter the exam period.

“All train services will continue to operate as normal. Translink apologises for any inconvenience this may cause”.