Bus drivers support strike in wage disagreement

Bus drivers on the Isle of Man have voted to take industrial action amid ongoing disputes regarding pay, working conditions, and proposed modifications to long-standing benefits, according to union officials.

The union Unite stated that the ballot results highlighted "widespread frustration among staff" at government-operated Bus Vannin, giving the union a "clear and strong mandate" to initiate action, although specific plans have not yet been announced.

The Department of Infrastructure (DoI) had recently proposed "reductions in established allowances and changes to terms that staff depend on," the union noted.

Unite regional officer Debbie Halsall emphasized that the vote sent a "very clear message" from members. She said: "Bus Vannin drivers will not accept regressions in pay and conditions. The union now has a robust mandate to take action. These drivers shoulder significant responsibilities daily and deserve fair and respectful treatment."

Ms. Halsall urged the DoI to "come back to negotiations with a meaningful, authorised proposal that addresses the recurring concerns of the drivers."

The union will now enter the statutory notification stage, with dates for industrial action to be set if no agreement is reached.

Author: Benjamin Carter