Collision course for unions, bus group

Bus Éireann and trade unions were on a collision course last night after workers criticised immediate cost-cutting measures introduced by the state-owned company, which includes a ban on unrostered overtime and an embargo on recruitment.

The company, which has forecast losses for last year of €8m and which could be insolvent within 18 months unless it turns around its financial position, issued the immediate actions to trade unions yesterday. Bus Éireann acting CEO Ray Hernan warned that further savings would be necessary.

In the accompanying letter Mr Hernan said “we are facing a very uncertain future” and that “a review of every cost line” was already underway.