Unite condemns ‘unprecedented’ sidelining of WRC

Unite members working for Bus Éireann are preparing to commence strike action at midnight tonight.  Speaking this afternoon after a meeting in Unite’s Dublin offices of the five trade unions involved, Unite Regional Officer Willie Quigley said:

“Bus Éireann management bears full responsibility for what should have been an avoidable strike.  Their decision to sideline the WRC is, in my experience, unprecedented.  The behaviour of management, culminating in yesterday’s letter to staff, raises very serious questions regarding the commitment of both management and Bus Éireann’s shareholder, the Minister, to the future of the company as a public transport provider offering a quality public service to the public and decent terms and conditions to its workers.

“While we remain available to engage under the auspices of the WRC, the unions are determined to defend the interests of our members and the travelling public.

“Our members are now preparing to take indefinite strike action from midnight tonight, Mr Quigley concluded.