Strike action at First Manchester called off as pay dispute resolved

Photo: Journeaux

First buses at the Rochdale Interchange

The strike action at the Oldham depot of First Manchester buses has been called off.

Around 300 drivers, who are members of the Unite union, have accepted an improved offer which will see pay rates increase by 8.9 per cent.

In addition to the increase in basic pay, the drivers will see all other payments increase by the same percentage and they will also receive a one off payment of £750.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said the agreement was "an excellent result."

We are pleased to advise customers that the pay dispute at our Oldham depot has been resolved and no more industrial action will take place. This means all services will continue to operate as normal. Thank you to everyone for your patience during recent weeks of disruption. pic.twitter.com/AjZn3iKCac

— First Manchester (@FirstManchester) February 11, 2022

In total bus drivers took eight days of strike action since the beginning of the year in the dispute, which caused considerable disruption to bus passengers throughout Greater Manchester.

The drivers recorded a 70% yes vote to accept the improved pay offer.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “This is an excellent result for our members at First Manchester. By standing together and remaining united they have secured a substantial pay rise.

“This deal puts down a strong marker for other bus companies that Unite will fight for decent pay increases that reflect the cost of living crisis. We are determined to defend members’ jobs, pay and conditions – it is Unite’s number one priority.”

In a statement on social media, First Manchester said: “We are pleased to advise customers that the pay dispute at our Oldham depot has been resolved and no more industrial action will take place.

“This means all services will continue to operate as normal. Thank you to everyone for your patience during recent weeks of disruption.”