New offer ends Arriva pay dispute
ONGOING bus strikes that included the Macclesfield depot have ended after an improved pay offer was secured.
Arriva North West staff had been taking part in ‘all-out continuous strike action’ over pay after union bosses blasted an originally offered increase of three per cent as ‘pitiful.’
Macc workers were among 1,800 participating in the industrial action since July 20.
But Unite the Union has announced that employees would return to work on Thursday, August 18, following an improved offer of 11.1 per cent.
Arriva drivers, represented by the UNITE and GMB unions, said they require a decent pay rise to keep up with rising inflation and the ongoing cost of living crisis.
It comes after unions rejected an offer of an 8.5 per cent rise earlier this month.
However, union bosses are recommending employees accept the newest offer.
This meant all planned strike action was called off and the proposed pay rise will be backdated to April.
Unite regional officer Dave Roberts said: “Following our members’ very strong rejection of the company’s offer yesterday evening, Arriva have seen sense and met the demands of our members.
“Drivers are to return to work to serve the needs of the community and public.
“The determination and resolve of our members has been solid throughout the industrial action and we thank those who have provided support and assistance to secure the offer from the company.”
An Arriva spokesman said: “Following ongoing discussions in recent weeks, all parties have come to an agreement on an unprecedented pay deal for Arriva North West drivers.
“All parties will now work together to progress the pay offer. Arriva would like to thank our customers across the North West region, for your continued patience in recent weeks, during the extremely challenging strike period.”