Arriva bus workers to strike in pay row

The union Unite says drivers at Arriva's rivals have received "substantial pay increases"

Hundreds of bus workers are to stage two weeks of strike action in a row over pay.

About 300 drivers and engineers at Arriva Northumbria will walk out for one week from 7 April with a further week starting 21 April.

The union Unite says its members voted overwhelmingly in favour of strikes following a pay offer of 4%.

The bus operator described the announcement as "disappointing news" for passengers.

Unite says the firm's drivers are currently the lowest paid out of the three main operators that cover Tyne and Wear and that staff there have received "substantial increases" following its involvement.

Owners 'don't care'

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said Arriva was "behaving appallingly" towards staff based at depots in Blyth and Ashington.

"This employer doesn't care about its workforce and its overseas owners don't care about the communities in the North East.

"Without our members there is no bus company and their pay and conditions must reflect the hard work they put in day in and day out."

Unite regional officer Dave Telford added: “This strike demonstrates the strength of ill-feeling at Arriva over the poor pay offer when energy bills and mortgages have gone through the roof."

An Arriva spokesperson said the firm would "continue to work with Unite and try our best to find the most appropriate resolution".

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