Unite representative says locking drivers out is futile

Unite representative Bobby Morton says the union is not on strike today, but has effectively been locked out by the employer.

Drivers started a two part industrial action today by walking out at 7.30am for two hours. They will down tools again for two hours between 3 and 5 this afternoon.

The DCCL has stated that bus drivers who take part in today's strikes will not be allowed to return to work afterwards, as the department wants to run a Sunday timetable all day to ensure continuity of service.

Mr Morton calls the move "futile", as drivers' wages will be recovered at a tribunal at a future date.

He adds there's a lot of anger and he's now given up hope that the employer has the will or know how to settle the dispute.

Meanwhile, the contingency plans put in place by the DCCL seemed to run smoothly this morning, although there were ten man picket lines at Douglas depot and in Port Erin.