ISLAND bus drivers have threatened to strike on Tynwald Day over changes to their terms and conditions.
Unite, the union representing a large number of drivers, has informed Bus Vannin that members will strike next Tuesday, July 5 and on Wednesday, July 6, if an agreement over conditions is not reached.
Community, Culture and Leisure Minister David Cretney MHK 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 said schools will remain open as normal.
Negotiations between the bus drivers and the Department of Community, Culture and Leisure will continue today. A further statement will be issued on Friday.
