An early outcome now appears unlikely in the bus drivers dispute due to the ‘complexity of the issues’ a statement from the chairman of the panel assessing the case has said.
Chairman of the three-person panel looking at the case, Douglas Stewart, issued the following statement.
‘The chairperson is aware that an early indication of the decision would have been appreciated by both parties.
‘However, the complexity of the issues and the length of the evidence was such that no decision can be announced with any immediacy – but every effort will be made to announce the outcome as soon as possible.’
The panel, which also included Mr Peter Murcott and Mrs Fiona Robinson heard the case over three days last week and it was hoped that a decision could be reached this week.
The drivers and the Department of Community, Culture and Leisure are in a long-running battle over changes in terms and conditions of the drivers’ contracts.