Arbitration not an option says Chief Executive

Binding arbitration isn't possible

That's the view of the Chief Executive of the Department of Community Culture and Leisure, Nick Black, who says further strikes won't help solve the problem.

It was confirmed today that bus drivers are to stage a two part strike next Wednesday (6th) from 7.30 am to 9.30am, then again for two hours in the late afternoon from 3pm.

Mr Black says if arbitration reached a settlement they couldn't afford within their budget, his department would have to ask for Tynwald's permission - and it's not possible to enter binding arbitration which would be conditional on the court's approval.

He admits it seemed progress was being made in the dispute until negotiations were taken over by off-Island representatives