Another day of bus driver negotiations fails to produce resolution

Three new ballots went to the bus drivers, two of which came with the union’s recommendation to accept; all of which however were unsuccessful.

The Department of Community, Culture and Leisure have stressed the financial challenges they face, saying proposals put forward by Unite would not have achieved the level of savings required.

The sticking point on all the proposals is the fact the DCCL are stripping the drivers of paid lunch hour, a move that will see a £300,000 saving.

The DCCL have said they will accept any alternative austerity measures, if it results in the same amount of money saved.