Bus Eireann staff are preparing for an “all out” strike from tomorrow (Monday).
FERMANAGH commuters travelling to Dublin from next week should start considering alternative travel plans as Bus Eireann staff prepare for an “all-out indefinite” strike from tomorrow, (Monday).
While the good news is the Number 30 bus from Donegal to Dublin, via Belleek, Enniskillen and Derrylin, has not been included in a list of Expressway Services to be axed as a cost cutting exercise by the under-pressure company, those using the service will face severe disruption from next week as staff go on strike in protest at those cost saving measures.
Earlier this week, the National Bus and Rail Union (NBRU) confirmed an all-out strike by staff at the national coach service would take place from the beginning of next week, March 6, in protest at the company’s plans to claw back savings of €12 million.
A spokesman for NBRU said they were left with “no choice” but to take the drastic action, and trade union SIPTU have said they too will back the strike action.
This will very likely mean those using the Number 30 bus to travel to Dublin airport and those travelling to the city will have to make alternative travel plans.
A spokesman for Bus Eireann told the Herald their cost cutting measures, which will see several nationals services axed and several more reduced, were necessary for the survival of the company. They added the company would continue to work with the unions to try to resolve the issue. Further measures are expected to impact on staff pay and jobs, and said the planned strike action could make put the company in an even more perilous position.
“The financial situation at Bus Eireann remains critical, with the company facing insolvency by May,” said the spokesman. “As a result, cost savings measures must be introduced next Monday, March 6 to stave this off.
“The strike action threatened by unions will accelerate the crisis further, and significantly discommode our customers. Bus Eireann management remain committed to re-engaging in WRC (Workplace Relations Commission) talks to seek a solution, and urge unions to do the same.”
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