The underlying approach in Dublin Bus's Strategy for Investment and Competitiveness is "sound and necessary", according to a Labour Court recommendation issued yesterday. The proposals in the plan, which have been under discussion for almost two years, have not proved acceptable to the unions.
However, the Labour Court says that in view of the arguments put to the court by the unions - SIPTU and the National Bus and Rail Union - some amendments should be made to the proposals.
It says the proposed starting rate of pay did not adequately reflect the duties which new drivers would be expected to undertake. It also considered the proposed scale unduly long.
It recommends that the first two points of the scale be eliminated and the scale reduced to six points. The proposed lead-in lump sum should be increased to £1,000, together with the 5 per cent increase retrospective to August 30th, 1998.
Referring to "autofares", the court says it is wholly unacceptable that bus workers should be exposed to the danger of assault.
"The company has a serious duty to take all measures within their power to eliminate this danger. The autofare system has contributed greatly to the reduction in the incidence of assaults. The fact that this system has not yet been extended to all routes is unacceptable.
"The court recommends that the company revise its target for the extension of this system and undertake to have the necessary work completed by the end of March 1999."
The court also says the current economic and commercial circumstances of Dublin Bus seriously inhibit its capacity to respond adequately to the emerging opportunities or to meet the emerging challenges of the future.