Dublin Bus drivers back strike action over new rosters

Dublin Bus drivers have voted overwhelmingly in favour of taking industrial action over the introduction of new rosters.

The company is bringing in the new timetables next month to comply with EU regulations limiting the working week to 48 hours.

The National Bus and Railworkers Union is concerned about a potential loss of earnings for its members and has slammed the company for introducing the new arrangements without consultation.

Drivers want their basic pay to be increased for the resulting loss in earnings and have now voted to take industrial action if Dublin Bus presses ahead with its plans.

The NBRU said strike action could only be avoided if the company agreed to enter negotiations before introducing the rosters.

The union is due to meet next week to discuss what form the action will take.