UNISON general secretary Christina McAnea joined Greater Manchester public transport workers on their second walkout this week over pay today.

Hundreds of Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) staff went on strike on Wednesday after rejecting a below-inflation 3.2 per cent pay offer.

They have been taking part in a work-to-rule since last Monday and have planned further strikes for Wednesday and Friday next week.

Unison and Unite have called for a 5.9 per cent pay increase, in line with the settlement for bus drivers on the city’s Bee Network.

Ms McAnea, who joined the picket line outside TfGM’s offices in Manchester, said: “Staff only ever choose to strike as a last resort.

“They’d far rather be making sure everyone can get around their community, visit friends and get to work.

“But they’ve been left with no choice when they’ve been denied a decent, fair pay rise. People who provide essential services deserve wages that keep pace with rising bills.”

Unison TfGM branch secretary Tony Wilson added: “There’s a thriving transport network across the city and beyond, which has undergone major improvements in recent years.

“None of that would be possible without hundreds of hard-working and committed staff.

“Yet they’ve seen their pay eroded, while their responsibilities have increased. It’s only right they’re given a fair offer, in line with the 5.9 per cent given to bus drivers. The ball’s firmly in the employer’s court.” 

Managing director Steve Warrener this week described the unions’ asks of a 9 per cent pay rise for all staff and a four-day working week with no loss of pay as “not affordable or sustainable.”

TfGM managing director Steve Warrener said: “We’re continuing discussions with the unions and are doing all we can to limit any impact on passengers on strike days. Bus and tram services will run as normal and all our interchanges will be open, but some facilities – such as ticket offices and toilets – may be closed.

“We’re absolutely committed to TfGM being a rewarding place to work and build a career, with good pay, terms and conditions. We’ve made several proposals to the unions. Our current offer particularly supports those on our lowest pay bands, ensuring that no-one earns less than £15.10 per hour, the equivalent to an annual salary of over £29,000.”