The Mayor of Greater Manchester has given residents an update as transport workers from the union Unite are going on strike this week.
The strikes that are planned to take place from Thursday 12 December to Sunday 15 December – with possible disruption expected for Salford residents using buses across the city.
Following the announcement of the strikes, Andy Burnham has shared that the Bee Network will continue to run despite what he sees as ‘unnecessary and unjustified’ plans by workers.
The decision made by the workers of Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) will take place as they strike over pay – with disruptions expected for residents.
Around 200 union members are set to strike during the Christmas period, consisting mostly of lower-paid staff members at Transport for Greater Manchester (TFGM).
The roles of those striking include ticketing, passenger assistance and information service – not including the bus or tram drivers.
Talks with Unison and Unite unions are still ongoing, with several improved offers to increase pay and improve other terms made to try and avoid industrial action.
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “Our members at TfGM undertake an essential role in keeping public transport functioning. It is disgraceful that the company thinks that institutional poverty pay is acceptable.
“Unite never takes a backward step in protecting our members jobs, pay and conditions and the workforce at TfGM has the union’s complete support.”
Whilst Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, said: “With several revised and improved pay offers made to staff, this strike action is now primarily about giving more money to those already earning more than £50,000.”
He continued by adding that other transport authorities have accepted the deal, while unions in Greater Manchester are still refusing.
The Mayor of Greater Manchester continued: “The planned action is unnecessary, unjustified and comes at a critical time when we’re readying to launch Bee Network buses across the remainder of Greater Manchester in January.”
However, despite the strikes Andy Burnham confirmed “the Bee Network will continue to run.”
Although passengers should be aware that, whilst they’ll still be able to make their journey with little disruption expected, some supporting facilities may be reduced.
Salford residents are encouraged to plan their journeys ahead of one of the busiest weekends of the year – and should be aware that, whilst they’ll still be able to make their journey with little disruption expected.
Residents should be aware that some interchange facilities, such as toilets may be closed.
With the weekend one of the busiest before Christmas Steve Warrener, Managing Director at Transport for the Greater Manchester, added: “It’s a really busy time of the year and we’re determined to keep the Bee Network going. People will still be able get around, support local businesses and visit loved ones.
“We’ve been working hard behind the scenes and we’ll continue talks with union colleagues with the aim of getting to an agreement and minimising any inconvenience to passengers.”
More information about the strikes and the Greater Manchester Mayor’s response can be found here.
Recent Comments