Bus driver Emeka Nyack Ihenacho, 36, died with Covid-19 last year

BUS drivers threatening to go on strike next week say a new remote set-up risks leaving them with less money.

Workers fear they could drop at many as 10 hours a week under a shake-up by the Metroline operators.

They are fighting a “remote sign-on” policy, which would mean drivers start en route rather than beginning at a depot. Critics say this puts staff in danger and causes fatigue.

Discussions between union reps and Metroline took place this week before this idea was paused – a move wel­comed by Unite the union.

Routes affected by possible industrial action include the 43 and 393.

A bus driver based at Holloway garage said: “I’ve been a bus driver for 23 years. It’s more about profits than safety. It’s not about the care of the workers.”

He added: “The drivers here have been going through a lot, we have lost some of our colleagues to Covid, and right now it’s a lot to take in.”

Emeka Nyack Ihenacho, 36, and Win Tin Soe, 61, both died from the virus last year.

Their deaths prompted a campaign to improve bus driver safety across London and to be considered frontline workers.

Transport for London is investigating the impacts of “remote sign on”, with findings expected this year.

Mary Summers, regional officer from Unite the union, in a letter to workers said that the pause on the policy was good news, adding: “Members should be under no doubt – this is a very, very significant win.”

Another ballot over whether to strike is taking place today (Friday) with results to be announced this evening.

A Metroline spokesperson said: “Following productive and positive discussions with the Union, we have agreed a new proposal.

“This proposal is being recommended by the Union and will be put to a consultative ballot on Friday May 21.”