Transport workers have won the right to take comfort and rest breaks on late shifts after Edinburgh’s tram company backed down.
Staff had been prepared to go on strike over a dispute with Edinburgh Trams due to late running times at Edinburgh airport which prevented workers from taking comfort breaks.
The Unite union has now said that the dispute is over after the company accepted its position, meaning members will get agreed rest periods.
An increase in tram driver recruitment is now also expected in order to provide the level of service required to properly cover the route.
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “This was a dispute over basic dignity at work. While we are pleased that this dispute is settled, it should not have taken the threat of industrial action to result in a U-turn by Edinburgh Trams.
“Being treated with dignity and respect is a human right, not a benefit that employers can withdraw on a whim.
“Unite backed its tram membership all the way in their fight for decency and dignity at work and won.”
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Unite said it had highlighted a shortfall of running times from Edinburgh Airport to Newhaven which impacted upon the driving time before a scheduled break,
Lyn Turner, Unite industrial officer said: “Edinburgh’s tram workers were forced to threaten industrial action following legitimate concerns around rest and comfort breaks, which angered our members.
"Appropriate running times should have been negotiated prior to the Newhaven line being opened.
“Unite is pleased that the dispute is over, but anyone with an ounce of basic decency knows it should not have come to this in the first place.”
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