Travel chaos fears

Commuters in East Kilbride could face further disruption with a possible strike by bus drivers.

There is already ongoing industrial action by RMT members, which is causing delays or cancellations of train services.

Now those in the town using bus services to and from Glasgow could also face travel disruption.

This week, Unite the Union launched a consultative ballot with approximately 1700 members working for First Glasgow over driver shortages and service provision.

Unite members are extremely concerned at the substantial shortage of drivers which is resulting in a detrimental impact in the service provided to the public.

Over the last year the recruitment and retention of drivers has steadily deteriorated with up to one hundred drivers are required across the Glasgow operation.

Unite is requesting urgent talks with the company to discuss a number of underlying issues such as starter rates and progression of new drivers.

Wendy Dunsmore, Unite regional officer, said: “Unite members in First Glasgow should be congratulated as they are being proactive in protecting jobs, customers and communities.

“It is a pity First Glasgow don’t have the same commitment and we urge the company to meet with union representatives at the earliest opportunity to resolve a number of underlying issues for the benefit of the workforce, the company and the public.”