Cardiff bus strikes called off as pay deal accepted

Cardiff Bus workers had planned three weeks of strikes over the summer in a row over pay and conditions

Planned bus strikes in Cardiff have been called off after workers accepted a new pay offer.

About 450 workers planned to walk out for three weeks amid a row over pay, but the industrial action was put on hold while discussions between Cardiff Bus and Unite the union continued.

Workers have now voted to accept a new deal, which includes a 5.86% backdated pay rise on all elements of pay, including sick pay.

Unite's regional officer, Alan McCarthy, said it was "disappointing" they had come so close to strike action to achieve what he called "very reasonable goals".

The strikes would have seen disruption to services in Cardiff and the surrounding area, including Barry and Penarth.

Other changes in the deal will see three unpaid waiting days for sickness reduced to one day and long-term sick pay kicking in at four weeks at a higher rate, which would be back paid to cover the short-term sick period.

The union said there were previously issues at Cardiff Bus with driver fatigue and stress as workers struggled to take proper breaks, with sometimes long walking times to break facilities.

The new offer includes an additional five minutes of walking time to guarantee a 45-minute break for drivers, as well as a paid 15-minute break for garage workers which they did not have before.

Sharon Graham, Unite general secretary, said members at Cardiff Bus had fought to improve and protect pay and conditions "not just for themselves, but for the long-term benefit of the sector in Wales".