The Department of Community, Culture and Leisure has been in discussions for some months over changes to terms and conditions for bus drivers. Negotiations are continuing between Bus Vannin and its drivers to reach agreement. However, Unite, the union representing a large percentage of drivers, has informed Bus Vannin that its members will strike next week on Tynwald Day (Tuesday 5 July) and Wednesday (6 July) if agreement is not reached. Hon David Cretney MHK, Minister for Community, Culture and Leisure, said: ‘I hope agreement can be reached and the dispute resolved but we believe the Department has made a fair and reasonable offer to ‘buy out’ some historic terms and conditions. This will make the organisation more efficient and as a result produce a significant ongoing saving to the taxpayer. Therefore, we have decided to warn customers there is a strong possibility that a large number of bus drivers might strike. This will mean that it is likely that we will be unable to run any services on either day. On Tuesday this will impact on people wishing to attend our national parliamentary ceremony and fair at St John’s. On Wednesday this will impact on passengers for all-Island bus services, including school bus services. We are flagging up the possibility now so people who have important journeys to make – such as trips to the airport, to hospital, to work and of course to Tynwald Day – can be aware of the likely need to make alternative arrangements.’ The Department of Education and Children has advised that schools will be open on Wednesday as usual. Negotiations will continue tomorrow (Thursday). A further statement will be issued on Friday morning confirming whether or not the two day strike is going ahead. ENDS