Industrial action in south and west Wales - 2025

Unite the Union has confirmed strikes will take place between the following dates (inclusive):
30th October - 2nd November
5th - 8th November

Updated: Friday 24th October at 3.45pm

Doug Claringbold, Managing Director for First Bus in Cymru, said: “We are disappointed for our customers that the above inflation pay offer we made to our colleagues, including drivers, has been rejected and that they will now face disruption. 

“Throughout this extensive negotiation process, we have listened to Unite the Union member feedback and made a number of offers in order to try and settle this dispute, to ensure customers who rely on our services are not affected by strike action. 

“Unfortunately, rather than work with us to find a resolution, Unite the Union has decided to press ahead with strikes, affecting our customers. Our door remains open to negotiation.

"We will shortly provide further information on our website about which services will be affected."

Updated: Friday 17th October at 2pm

Doug Claringbold, Managing Director for First Bus in Cymru, said: “We are pleased that the union has decided to suspend its planned strikes for four days from October 22 while its members consider our new pay offer. We have always committed to working with Unite the Union to try and settle this dispute to avoid unnecessary disruption to customers. We hope for a favourable outcome so we’re able to keep our buses on the road and continue serving our customers. 

"We are continuing to monitor the union's plans for two four-day strikes from October 30 and November 5, and will post updates on our website shortly."

Updated: Wednesday 15th October at 12pm

Doug Claringbold, Managing Director for First Bus in Cymru, said: “We are disappointed for our customers that the above inflation pay offer we have made to colleagues has been rejected and that they will now face disruption across south and west Wales.

“Throughout an extensive negotiation process we have listened to Unite member feedback and made a number of offers in order to try and reach an agreement so that customers who rely on our services are not affected by strike action. 

“Unfortunately, the union has decided to press ahead with strikes over the coming weeks, including during the half term holiday. Our door remains open to continue discussions and avoid unnecessary disruption. We will shortly provide further information on our website about which services will be affected if the planned action takes place.”