TALKS between Arriva and Unite to resolve an indefinite strike over pay broke down yesterday. 

The walkout started on Monday, June 6, leaving bus users in Bradford and West Yorkshire without access to their usual services.

A spokesman for Unite said on Twitter they had met with Arriva bosses at the firm's headquarters in Wakefield.

"Unfortunately, after four hours of discussion the talks have broken down with no deal," he said.

"We are committed to coming back to the table to confirm and continue negotiating to try and bring this dispute to an end."

What did Arriva say about the talks?

 

In a statement, Arriva said: "Today, Arriva Yorkshire presented a further increased pay offer to Unite for our colleagues.

"This new offer represents an increase of between 8.2 per cent and 12.7 per cent and raises the top rate to £13.15 per hour as well as increasing back pay.

"We were hopeful today's talks would lead to a positive outcome and the ending of strike action across Yorkshire.

"However, we’re extremely disappointed at Unites ongoing decision to not ballot their members on this offer.

"Our customers will no doubt share this frustration as strikes will continue to have a negative impact on our communities.  

"We repeat our call for the strike to be suspended and for the union to take our offer to our employees so that communities can access vital bus services."

West Yorkshire Mayor 'deeply disappointed'

 

West Yorkshire Mayor Tracy Brabin said: "I am deeply disappointed talks have broken down earlier today between Unite and Arriva Yorkshire.

"As a bus user, I understand the frustrations of passengers and want nothing more than this action to be resolved. Sadly, because bus services outside of London are run by private operators, our powers are limited.

"Earlier this week, I introduced a free shuttle bus to take people to vital hospital appointments at Pinderfields in Wakefield, and we are continuing to look at what other interim measures we can implement to help.

"In a cost-of-living crisis people need to be paid a fair wage but we also need to get our region back on the move.

"I’ve met with Arriva Yorkshire and Unite and urged them to come to an agreement for the benefit of those needing to get to work, school and around the region.

"I sincerely hope that both sides can come together as soon as possible."