Siptu claims better deal for bus drivers

BUS DRIVERS have been told the Labour Court recommendation put forward on Thursday was a “huge improvement” on the original Dublin Bus plans.

In a letter to members, discussed at a meeting in Liberty Hall yesterday, Siptu said considerable improvements had been made in the agreement and a large number of the union’s objections had been upheld.

The Labour Court said Dublin Bus could go ahead with plans to take 120 buses from its fleet as part of a cost-saving plan.

However, it ruled there should be no dilution of shift pay arrangements and the weekend overtime earning potential for drivers should be increased. Rotas should only include one additional Sunday.

It also proposed changes to paid meal-break arrangements for drivers which the company said could generate about €350,000 in savings.

The Labour Court did take cognisance of the union’s objections, Siptu said, and considerable progress was made in alleviating some of the concerns of drivers.

Drivers had rejected compromise proposals drawn up by the Labour Relations Commission and warned of strike action in the event of management introducing unilateral reforms.

Yesterday, drivers were warned that dispute-resolution procedures had been exhausted and there was no other forum that could intervene to improve the recommendations. They were advised to examine the recommendations ahead of a ballot on Tuesday to accept or reject them.

The mood at the meeting appeared resigned, with fewer than 40 of 2,800 drivers appearing to hear the union’s explanation. Branch organiser Willie Noone told the meeting to examine the proposals carefully.

“If this is rejected . . . we will be left with no other option than to ballot for industrial action.”