Bus and train strike called off

A planned strike which would have seen no public transport operate in Derry has been called off.

Members of the UNITE union had planned a 24-hour stoppage for Wednesday next in protest at proposed cutbacks by Translink.

The union said the decision to call off the industrial action was the result of Transport Minister Danny Kennedy placing a hold on proposed transport budget cuts.

Mr Kennedy has welcomed the decision.

He said: “Following a meeting with UNITE union today, I have agreed that Translink will put on hold the outcome of their recent consultation process. This is to allow UNITE time to produce an alternative set of efficiency proposals for consideration and I have asked Translink and my officials to assist them, as required, in this process.

“On that basis the threat of industrial action has been suspended. I know this will be a relief to the public who rely on public transport and for those schoolchildren who are sitting exams on this day.”