Glasgow First Bus drivers strike on Black Friday weekend called off

Strike action involving more than 1,200 First Bus drivers in Glasgow starting on Black Friday in a dispute over pay has been called off.

Unite the union said that drivers voted by 99% in support of strike action, with a turnout of 77% after an “unacceptable” pay offer.

Drivers had planned to walk out from 4am on Friday, November 24 – one of the busiest shopping weekends of the year before Christmas – until 3.59am on Friday, December 1.

First Bus confirmed that following talks with union representatives, a new offer would be put forward for ballot.

It means the planned industrial action has been suspended and all First Bus services across Greater Glasgow will operate as planned.

A First Bus spokesperson said: “Following further talks with union representatives, we can confirm a new offer will be put forward to union members for ballot by Unite with unanimous recommendation of acceptance.

“As a result, the planned industrial action between Friday November 24 and Friday December 1 has been cancelled.

“We appreciate the uncertainty this will have caused our customers and employees and wish to thank them for their patience while the discussions took place.

“All First Bus services across Greater Glasgow will operate as planned.”

Unite has been contacted for comment.