Unite union members at the Lea Interchange Bus Garage in Leyton are set to strike on 6th, 7th, 20th and 21st February over alleged ‘bullying’ and ‘union busting’ by Stagecoach, reports Marco Marcelline

Bus drivers at a Leyton depot are set to strike again over four days in February, amid an unresolved dispute with their management.

Unite union members at Lea Interchange Bus Garage, which is part of Stagecoach, are set to strike on 6th, 7th, 20th and 21st February.

Bus drivers there allege “bullying” and “union victimisation”, claiming they have been subjected to aggressive behaviour since a change in management a few months ago.

In a statement confirming strike action, Unite alleges that one of its rep was suspended, later dismissed and then reinstated, while another was suspended on “trumped-up charges”.

The union believes these reps are being targeted for participating in trade union activities, in a violation of employment law.

Amid a 98% vote by Unite members to strike, Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “Unite will never stand idly by when an employer uses union busting and bullying tactics.”

The strike will significantly disrupt a total of 13 routes that run across East London, including the 97 which runs between Chingford and Stratford, and the W13 from Leyton Mills to Woodford.

Transport for London (TfL) says little to no service is expected on the other following routes: 58, 86, 135, 236, 276, 308, 339, 488, D8, W14 and 678.

Strikes took place earlier this month, on Friday 9th and Saturday, 10th January.

A Stagecoach spokesperson previously told the Echo that it “strongly refutes” Unite’s allegations of union victimisation and bullying, while also saying the dispute is “not about pay”.

They said: “We recognise the important role of our recognised trade union and would not tolerate victimisation of union representatives for carrying out their duties.

“Any disciplinary matters are handled through long-established, trade-union-agreed procedures that apply equally to all employees and include the right to representation and appeal.

“We have made extensive efforts to resolve this matter, including agreeing to independent mediation, and remain open to further dialogue.

“Our priority is to do everything possible to minimise disruption and continue providing a safe, reliable service for our customers during the strike action.”

However, Unite regional officer John Murphy said: “We understand that those who rely on these bus services will be concerned to hear of industrial action, but this dispute is entirely the fault of the employer for bullying hardworking members of its workforce.

“The ballot result shows the strength of solidarity between bus drivers and their colleagues who have been affected by union busting. Management still have a chance to stop this disruptive action, but it relies on them radically changing their behaviour towards our reps.”

For more details on the industrial action and tools to plan your journey, go here

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