Aberdeen bus drivers have voted overwhelmingly for industrial action in a dispute with bosses over changes to terms and conditions.
About 250 First drivers were balloted, with 95% voting in favour of action that includes the possibility of a strike.
Unite the union, which represents the workers, will now contact First Bus informing them of the vote – with action possible any day after March 14.
Drivers have raised fears a new contract could lead to less holiday entitlement and longer working hours. First say the changes are necessary to protect jobs.
Mike Flynn, branch convener, said: “Of course, there is still a door open to First Bus who can talk to us to resolve this issue.
“We view these proposed changes to drivers’ contracts as unfair.”
The union has won backing from north-east Labour MSP Lewis Macdonald who said: “Clearly there will be concerns about the disruption the strike will cause, but the responsibility lies squarely with the management of First Aberdeen.
“Not only are drivers facing a significant pay cut, some will be expected to be on the road for ten hours a day.”
First Aberdeen managing director Andrew Jarvis said he awaited further information from Unite about any forthcoming action.
He called on union colleagues to realise that the firm was operating “in a very challenging economic climate”, which has had a negative impact on the business.
“We have not entered into this process lightly,” he said.
“These steps are necessary to safeguard the future of the depot at King Street and to bring us into line with other operators in the city.”
