Go North East staff may strike over claims of unsafe buses and unfair treatment for raising concerns.
Unite the Union says the firm threatened workers. They allege suspensions were issued unfairly, with staff sent home for raising concerns. These concerns were related to health and safety.
Some double-decker buses reportedly have faulty CCTV, particularly affecting the upper floors. Some staff received warnings for raising this issue. Accusations arose about bus assignments, suggesting Go North East may prioritize a new contract for its group in the North West using better buses there.
Unite’s Sharon Graham criticized Go North East, claiming they have appalling management practices reaching new depths. Workers, including union reps, faced threats and were pressured to sign papers, with the threat of dismissal, she said.
Go North East said they ensure safety, introducing safety briefings for drivers. The company says these reinforce best practices, supported by over 99% of drivers; only a very small number declined initially. Specifically, seven out of 1300 did not sign up, because they didn’t assure they’d follow safe procedures.
Some people support potential strike action. They believe everyone deserves safety at work. If managers punish staff for raising worries, action is needed. Fair pay for drivers is also mentioned as an issue. Management should address the problems.
Some believe collective action is important, emphasizing that companies shouldn’t profit at people’s expense. The lack of collective action hurts the country. Others question contacting health and safety authorities, asking why staff didn’t do this first.
Some think defective buses are a danger. This affects everyone on the road, even car drivers. Go North East faces complaints about bus routes, alleging old buses are used inappropriately. Single-decker buses run during peak commute times, and people report problems with the bus timetable as customer service doesn’t resolve the issues.