"Stagecoach drivers end strike after 17 days of action as pay rise agreed", 17 November 2021

A pay deal has been agreed by Stagecoach South Wales and union members bringing an end to 17 days worth of strike action.

The action, which began in October, saw an estimated 200 drivers at Stagecoach depots in Cwmbran, Brynmawr, and Blackwood walk out in a bid to improve working conditions and increase their hourly rate from £9.50 to £10.50.

The deal has now been agreed upon and will see drivers' hourly pay rate increased to £10.50 in line with the union's aspirations - a move that has been described by union bosses as a 'tremendous victory'.

Nigel Winter, managing director for Stagecoach South Wales, said he was pleased that an agreement could be reached by both sides this week.

He said: "We’re very proud of our team, who do a fantastic job in delivering vital transport connections for local people.

"We said right from the start that we were committed to getting a settlement to reflect the important role our people play and that also protects the long-term sustainability of the bus network for our customers and communities in South Wales.

"We’re pleased that through flexibility on both sides, and improvements in productivity, we have reached an agreement that achieves these aims through until April 2023 and that will bring an end to any further strike action."

However, Sharon Graham who is the Unite General Secretary called this a tremendous victory for its members in south Wales, who would not accept "poverty pay".

She said: "This is a tremendous victory for our members at Stagecoach South Wales. They been completely united throughout the strike. As result they have achieved what is a break-through deal for these workers, of £10.50 an hour...