Planned bus strikes across north London have been called off for now as drivers vote on a new offer from Arriva. More than 1,500 drivers at eight garages returned to strike action on Tuesday and were due to continue until the early hours of Friday, August 21.
Strike Suspended for Vote
The walkouts have been suspended while members of the Unite union vote on a new deal over working conditions. Drivers at Barking, Edmonton, Enfield, Grays, Palmers Green, Stamford Hill, Tottenham and Wood Green garages have already walked on Friday, August 14, and Saturday, August 15.
The dispute is over working conditions during hot weather, as well as allegations of bullying involving Unite members and representatives. Following talks with Arriva, Unite said it had paused the strikes to give drivers the chance to vote on the new offer.
Potential Restart
If they reject the deal, strike action is set to restart on Tuesday, August 25. Unite regional officer Steven Stockwell said: “Following talks, Arriva has made an offer to Unite members. “To allow our members to have their say on whether to accept this, we have postponed strike action so they can be balloted.”
