🚨 Heads up, South Wales! 🚌 A major strike by First Cymru drivers is set to cause significant disruption to bus services from November 20 through to January 21. Why? They’re demanding fair pay!
The drivers’ union, Unite, states the current wages are among the industry’s lowest. While drivers earn £13.40 per hour, their counterparts from other operators make more, with Cardiff Bus and Arriva North Wales paying around £15 per hour. First Cymru drivers say they’re fed up with not being paid agreed back-pay and what they describe as a poor “bung payment” to cross picket lines.
Unite’s General Secretary, Sharon Graham, claims First Cymru is taking industrial relations “to the dark ages.” She criticises them for allegedly not honouring owed monies and running what she calls union-busting tactics. 🚍💬
First Cymru, on the other hand, argues they’ve been working to improve pay and have made offers that surpass inflation. Doug Claringbold, managing director, says they’re frustrated by the strike plans, especially during the festive season. 🎄💼
It’s a tense time for communities in Swansea, Port Talbot, Bridgend, Carmarthen, Haverfordwest, and Ammanford. Unite’s backing drivers all the way, arguing that these skilled workers are being treated like second-class citizens. Meanwhile, First Cymru pledges to keep as many buses running as possible and urges customers to check their website for updates.
This dispute underscores the importance of fair compensation and the frustrations brewing among workers as costs of living and inflation rise. 🕖🤑 Share your thoughts below—do you agree with the strike? How will it affect your travel plans? 👇
#FirstCymruStrike #FairPayNow #SouthWalesTravel