DCCL rejects arbitration plea

Arbitration has been rejected as a way of solving the ongoing bus dispute.

The Department of Community, Culture and Leisure says it will not appoint an independent arbitrator to oversee the row over changes to drivers’ terms and conditions.

Unite, the union representing drivers, says it believes that is the best way forward.

It was announced last week that drivers will conduct a fourth strike on Wednesday with two two hour stoppages – one in the morning and one in the afternoon.

Chief executive of the department Nick Black says arbitration isn’t a viable solution:

(PLAY AUDIO ABOVE)