Original source (on modern site) | Article images: [1]
Striking bus drivers have been offered 16.2% by National Express in an attempt to end the industrial action which has drawn the region to a halt. The company has released a statement confirming Unite will recommend their members accept the deal. The LDRS has seen a letter addressed to Unite members by National Express UK CEO Tom Staples, notifying them of the new deal. National Express have offered a 16.2% increase on all current driver pay rates, up from the 14.3% which was turned down in a ballot with a 71% turn out. The firm have also committed to: READ MORE: £3 billion growth and 45,000 jobs aim with levelling up zones National Express has a shortage of around 300 drivers, Unite claims, which is impacting regular services. The trade union says buses that should be on the road are being stranded in depots.
Meanwhile, passengers have taken to social media to express their anger about public transport. With e-scooters pulled out of service and continuous train strikes, many are questioning why public transport has become so ineffective in the city. Around 3,100 drivers in - but not limited to - Perry Barr, Yardley, Acocks Green, and Wolverhampton - are on strike. Until an agreement is reached, the strikes will continue indefinitely, according to Unite. Unite national lead officer Onay Kasab said: "Following negotiations today, National Express put forward an improved pay offer which will be put to our members in a vote over the next two days. Unite will be making no further comments during the ballot period." READ NEXT: KFC plans for site of former Co-op in Acocks Green 'to enhance the area' Birmingham arts organisations to receive £9m in grants over next three years Michael Gove and Andy Street sign billion pound Trailblazer Deal 'Considerable progress' at Sandwell council, commissioners say Fury over 'social dumping' with planned supported living home in poor Walsall area Busy retail and leisure park in Wolverhampton to expand business Story Saved You can find this story in My Bookmarks.Or by navigating to the user icon in the top right.