TfGM and tram staff set to strike during Christmas period

More than 200 Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) workers are taking part in fresh industrial action this month, with walkouts confirmed on December 12, 13, 19, and 20.

The strikes are part of an ongoing dispute over pay.

More than 200 Unite members who work in bus ticketing, passenger assistance, and information services have already taken action in recent weeks, with Unison members also joining the walkouts.

Workers are demanding a pay rise above 3.2 per cent, calling the current offer “below inflation” and not reflective of increased workloads since the introduction of the Bee Network.

Sharon Graham, general secretary at Unite, said: “TfGM’s behaviour towards these workers is atrocious.

“Our members have put forward a reasonable pay request that TfGM can more than afford to meet.

“Strikes will continue with Unite’s full support until TfGM returns to talks and puts forward an acceptable offer.”

The action will affect the Bee Network, with anticipated disruption across buses and trams.

Unite’s regional industrial officer Sam Marshall said: “TfGM is totally responsible for the disruption that will be caused to passengers.

“It caused these strikes through its totally inadequate and frankly insulting pay offer.”

Around 320 tram drivers employed by KeolisAmey Metrolink are also striking over driver fatigue on December 19, 20, and 31.

The last Friday before Christmas, December 19, is historically a very busy night for hospitality in the city, while December 20 is the busiest shopping day of the year.