Bournemouth Transport: protect jobs and pensions call

Unite is calling on any potential new owner of Bournemouth Transport Ltd to protect the jobs and pensions of the company’s workforce.

Bournemouth Transport Ltd, which operated bus routes in the Bournemouth, Poole and Christchurch areas, from its Yeomans Road depot, fell into administration on Friday (July 29). Talks have since been held with at least one potential buyer but Unite is concerned that no guarantees on pensions and jobs have been forthcoming.

Unite which represents 200 workers at the company is seeking urgent talks with all potential new owners.

Unite understands that if the buyer agrees to purchase the company workers will be TUPED (Transfer of Undertakings [Protection of Employment]) to the new employer, however there is no guarantee that a buyer will wish to recruit the entire workforce. A buyer is not legally required to maintain existing pension arrangement which could mean that the existing final salary scheme could fall into the government’s pension protection fund, affecting the value of workers’ pensions.

Unite regional officer Janet Wall said, “The jobs and pensions of the workforce at Bournemouth Transport Ltd need to be fully protected. The collapse of the company into administration is not the fault of the loyal and dedicated workforce and they should not be forced to pay the penalty for the company’s failings.

“Unite is seeking an urgent meeting with any potential new buyer to secure cast iron guarantees on jobs and pensions and to understand its long-term plans for the operation.”

By Barckley Sumner