15 January 2024 , 09:55
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Around 400 workers at the Alexander Dennis bus manufacturing plant are set to start a two-week strike from Monday, a union has said.
The union Unite has stated that its members, including coach builders and spray painters, have dismissed the latest salary offer by the management at the factory close to Falkirk. It's not the first time workers have opted for industrial action over this problem, with the previous strike lasting for two weeks in December.
Unite officials expressed dissatisfaction with the offer, which included an increase of 4.5% for 2023 and 4% for 2024, as it didn't reach the expectations of the workers.
Sharon Graham, Unite's general secretary, voiced her support towards those on strike, stating: "Unite members at Alexander Dennis are being forced to strike again in their fight for fair pay." She added: "Our members remain utterly determined to get a fair offer from the company." and "We will back our members all the way in their fight for better jobs, pay and conditions."
Pat Egan, Unite's industrial officer, emphasised their demand isn't unreasonable but only for a worthy appreciation of their effort and loyalty. He said: "Our members are not asking for the earth but simply an offer worthy of their hard work and loyalty." Egan criticised the company by saying: "Alexander Dennis have instead made penny pinching offers which amount to a real-terms pay cut."
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Stating their disappointment over the workers' decision, Alexander Dennis Ltd had noted last month, "This is unacceptable and our members will continue to fight until they get what they deserve." During the previous strike, the company expressed its deep disappointment at the decision to down tools.
The company stated: "Our latest offer would take the hourly rate of a vehicle builder to £19.04 by April 2024, considerably higher than our primary domestic competitor, reflecting the high regard we have for the skills of our workforce."
"We have taken every measure possible over the past few years to retain as many highly skilled jobs as possible."
"Despite the challenges that the bus manufacturing industry continues to navigate, we have invested heavily in upgraded facilities and new products that will underpin our long-term future."
"However, we also must recognise that we operate in a highly commercial environment with ongoing competitive pressure from manufacturers in lower-security economies."
"Here in the UK, we do not have the benefit of protectionist policies and indeed in some cases we are held to a higher standard than importers."
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