Arriva bus strikes: Mayor hopeful deal 'within sight' despite strikes continuing following fresh talks stalemate

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The Mayor of West Yorkshire has revealed she is hopeful a deal is 'within sight' despite fresh talks between Arriva and Unite the Union reaching another stalemate.

The walkout started on Monday, June 6 after Unite the Union took action over what they described as a 'pitiful' pay increase offer.

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The strikes have caused significant disruption, with no Arriva bus services running across the region until the industrial action ends.

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Arriva and Unite previously met to discuss terms last week but talks broke down following four hours of discussion. Picture: Scott Merrylees.Arriva and Unite previously met to discuss terms last week but talks broke down following four hours of discussion. Picture: Scott Merrylees.
Arriva and Unite previously met to discuss terms last week but talks broke down following four hours of discussion. Picture: Scott Merrylees.

Arriva and Unite previously met to discuss terms last week but talks broke down following four hours of discussion.

Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire, has spoken of her disappointment following the fresh break down in talks but is hopeful a deal could finally be within reach.

"Sadly todays talks between Unite and Arriva have ended without a deal. I’ve spoken to both sides again this evening in the strongest terms making the case that this must now come to a positive conclusion for the sake of the people of West Yorkshire," she said.

"I’m grateful to both parties that it now feels as if a deal is finally within sight. Negotiations are hard but I know there is a solution that will protect the interests of drivers and passengers."

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Unite confirmed news of the break down in discussions on social media following 'several hours' of talks.

"UPDATE: Following several hours of talks between Unite the Union and Arriva Yorkshire, talks have ended without an acceptable offer that can be put to our members. #PayUpArriva." it read.

The bus provider and union have previously disagreed on the amount being offered after Arriva rejected claims that their original pay offer was just a 4.1 per cent increase. Claiming that they had instead offered figures of between a 7 and 12.5 per cent pay increase.

Drivers are looking for an hourly fee of approximately £13.50.

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