Bus drivers reject call to scrap paid lunch breaks

The drivers were balloted on the matter today following weeks of negotiations between the Department of Community, Culture and Leisure and union Unite.

Minister Graham Cregeen says he is disappointed with the outcome – which would allegedly save the government £300,000.

He says the department’s offer compensated the loss of the breaks with other efficiencies including changes to sick pay and maximum driving time being reduced.

Discussions are continuing this afternoon.