Dundee bus drivers are being hit with a reduction to their monthly salary in an effort to cut costs.
Xplore Dundee insists the move is a “deferral” in the wake of the deepening coronavirus crisis and that the funds will eventually be paid back.
Managing director Christine McGlasson said the measure would help to save jobs in line with temporarily service reductions which started on Monday.
Following the decision to close city schools to all but the children of key workers, Xplore Dundee has cut its service provision to public holiday levels, although most vital journeys to locations such as Ninewells Hospital are being maintained.
Ms McGlasson said: “In order to preserve jobs and in line with significant service reductions, we’ve had discussions with Unite the Union about a pay deferral, and this is being implemented right across National Express UK, including at senior levels.
“We’re extremely proud of the work our drivers are doing at the moment in the face of difficult circumstances, and are appealing for flexibility and patience from them and from our customers as the situation develops.”
She said other bus companies across the country were taking similar steps and as part of the Confederation of Passenger Transport Scotland Xplore Dundee was appealing to the Scottish Government to take action to help the industry survive.
Stagecoach East Scotland said it would not be requiring its conductor’ services for the time being and affected staff are being offered two weeks annual leave.
