BRIGHTON BUS COMPANY TRIES TO GAG GMB MEMBERS OVER DISPUTE


Brighton Bus Company has today stooped to a new low by threatening staff with the sack if they contact their local paper the Argus.

A large number of drivers have wanted to write to the Argus to express their dismay at the company’s recent decision to stop negotiating with the GMB over their terms and conditions however individual members of staff have been told they will be subject to disciplinary proceedings that could lead to dismissal if they go ahead.

The GMB believes that this is an appalling attempt by the company to limit the freedom of speech of our members, who only want to have their say on the current dispute. This is a legitimate activity for our members to undertake, and any attempt to discipline them will result in legal action from the GMB.

The GMB is currently undertaking a consultative ballot of its members to see if they are prepared to take industrial action. If they give the go ahead a formal ballot will take place and the GMB plan to orchestrate daily strikes between 8-9am and 5-6pm. During these times any GMB member driving a bus will pull in to the closest stop and ask the passengers to disembark or return the bus to their local depot.

Rob Macey, GMB Organiser said:

‘Brighton Bus Company has sunk to a new low by threatening our members with the sack if they speak to their local paper, the Argus.

This is an appalling decision by the company which not only goes against the principle of freedom of speech but also discriminates against our members on the basis of their trade union membership.

If any member faces disciplinary action for speaking out we will take immediate legal action against the company’