Threat of disruption as Angus Stagecoach staff balloted on industrial action

The ballot of 1500 workers covers major bus depots across the country, including Angus, and bus routes, remote local communities and events are expected to be severely disrupted.

Voting opened on Tuesday (September 21) and includes drivers, engineering staff, administrative workers, and cleaners. If they opt for industrial action then strikes, and action short of strike, could begin by late October and continue into late January.

The action has been called by Unite in response to what it says is below inflation pay offers to workers.

Dougie Maguire, the union’s regional co-ordinator, said: “Stagecoach’s stance has been nothing short of shocking, has infuriated the workforce who have continued to work diligently throughout the pandemic. The group is extremely profitable. It also directly benefits from millions of pounds of public funds every year through various Scottish Government schemes.

“If Stagecoach don’t come to their senses, then many major bus routes will grind to a halt if members vote for industrial action.”

A Stagecoach spokesperson said: "Discussions with Unite are continuing. We are committed to offering good packages that reflect the local economic conditions, the varying costs of running services, and the level of passenger journeys at a time when public transport is being financially supported by the Scottish Government."