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Bee Network Walkouts Set for Nov. 5 and Nov. 12 as Pay Dispute Deepens

The dispute hinges on unions rejecting a 3.2% offer versus TfGM deeming a 9% rise plus a four‑day week unaffordable.

Overview

  • More than 200 TfGM workers who help run the Bee Network will strike on November 5 and November 12, with unions warning of further action if talks stall.
  • The action involves ticketing, passenger assistance, information services, planners, station assistants, engineers, IT staff, control room operators and cleaners; tram and Bee Network bus drivers are not part of this strike.
  • Unite says the 3.2% offer amounts to a real‑terms cut against RPI inflation of about 4.5–4.6%, with general secretary Sharon Graham backing the walkouts.
  • TfGM says it cannot fund the unions’ ask of a 9% rise and a four‑day week, highlights a proposal setting a minimum £15.10 hourly rate, and expects buses and trams to run with some facilities closed.
  • Separately, 320 Metrolink drivers employed by KeolisAmey are being balloted over working conditions and fatigue, with the vote due to close on November 11.