Bus Éireann drivers’ pay rise demand ‘is likely to go to WRC’

THE request for a pay increase from Bus Éireann drivers is likely to end up in the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC).

It emerged earlier this week that drivers may object to taking on extra work during the visit of Pope Francis, if it looks like they won’t get a requested increase of almost 4pc.

Talks were under way yesterday between unions and the company, aimed at coming to a resolution.

Union sources told the Irish Independent that they expected the issue to be referred to the WRC and heard in the coming weeks.

The company will draw up a document with suggestions for further efficiencies in return for pay increases. However, this is unlikely to be accepted, with unions claiming that workers had given enough.

“We’re there to better the terms and conditions, not lessen them,” Siptu organiser John Murphy said.

The company last night reaffirmed that it was not in the WRC with any staff grade to discuss a play claim.

A spokesperson said that “exploratory” talks have taken place with unions. They said that those talks would continue over the coming weeks.

The rise sought by the drivers would be the same as that granted to staff at the other CIÉ companies.

Any objection to extra work could cause serious logistical difficulties during the visit of the pontiff, who is due to arrive in Ireland in August as part of the World Meeting of Families.