STAGECOACH Yorkshire has urged Unite to attend joint talks with arbitration service ACAS to put an end to ‘unnecessary’ strikes.
The company has so far made six different pay offers, all of which have been declined.
Bus workers are currently on an ‘indefinite’ strike following pay disputes.
Phil Medlicott, Stagecoach Yorkshire managing director, said: “We recognise the impact that Unite’s actions are having on people locally, and we share people’s frustrations over the damage being caused to local communities and businesses.
“That’s why we remain 100 per cent committed to reaching an agreement with Unite.
“Our staff deserve a good pay rise and that is what we have offered.
“However there needs to be flexibility on both sides and we are hopeful that the talks with ACAS will help to find a way forward in settling this dispute.
“Our teams have done an amazing job during the pandemic, and we very much appreciate everything they have done.
“But at the same time, we have a commitment to continue to protect jobs and ensure that future bus services in Yorkshire remain sustainable for our customers to continue to use.
“We have now reached an agreement with Unite at the vast majority of depots across England, Scotland and Wales, and there is no reason why we cannot reach a sensible and affordable agreement for South Yorkshire.”
