Positive talks

The prospect of industrial action by drivers at First Glasgow has been averted following protracted negotiations involving Unite officials.

The union had conducted a consultative ballot of its members at First Glasgow in a dispute over staff numbers, starter rates, drivers’ progression, training costs and the use of contract drivers. The result of the ballot was an overwhelming mandate to proceed to an official ballot for industrial action.

However, Unite has now secured an agreement with First Glasgow addressing all of the issues under dispute.

“Following drivers making their views absolutely clear with last week’s emphatic ballot result, meaningful dialogue has now taken place and both First Glasgow and Unite are determined to seek a satisfactory outcome,” said Unite regional office Wendy Dunsmore.

“The current positive dialogue means that we will be halting any moves to an official industrial action ballot.”