The Unite union has warned that ‘hostile’ management culture at Lothian Buses could result in strike action.
Edinburgh Evening News reported that the union has made claims that there has been a breakdown in the industrial relations between the company’s workforce and management due to the company not appropriately dealing with issues concerning harassment and bullying.
The source was told of how a bus driver for the company had been sacked after he had complained about bosses on a closed Facebook group. 10 others were suspended over this.
Industrial action was initially averted when the company and the union came to an agreement over how they would tackle concerns; however the union now states that company management is no longer fulfilling their side of the deal.
Speaking to Edinburgh Evening News, Unite Regional Officer Lyn Turner said: “Unite is keen to work with Lothian Buses to avoid a complete breakdown in relations between company management and the workforce, but they must be prepared to enter into genuine and meaningful dialogue. It’s that simple.
“Make no bones about it; unless management at Lothian Buses take their side of industrial relations seriously, they will have a dispute on their hands.”
Lyn Turner added that if the company didn’t address the situation, the union would move to a consultative ballot on
industrial action.
A consultative ballot would involve around 1900 workers at each of the three Lothian garages at Longstone, Seafield and Annandale Street.
A Lothian spokesperson said: “Lothian’s senior management met with union representatives last week and we are shocked that Unite are not trying to resolve any concerns with us directly and instead feel they can negotiate through the media.
“Our first thought is for our customers who rely on our services every day and in the longer term such actions cannot be good for Unite members and other staff.
“Our commercial success in recent years has allowed us to create new jobs and provide a 6% pay increase over three years
from 2016.
“The entire country is concerned with the outcome of Brexit and we are certain this is the last thing the people of Edinburgh need.
“We would strongly encourage Unite to follow the agreed due process for resolving disputes.”
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