IN WHAT has been a tradition- ally male-dominated sector, Bus Éireann has been making progress in recent years to achieve greater gender balance.
In 2022, the company’s first gender pay gap report, found a mean gender pay gap of -10.2% in favour of female employees and a median gender pay gap of -5.6% in favour of female employees.
Notwithstanding this outcome, the report also identified areas for action, in particular the overall high male-to-female employee ratio, 90% male and 10% female in the company.
A strategic goal is to address gender imbalance including increasing Service Supervisor roles from 2% in 2019 to 10% in 2030, and to at- tract more female driving and craftworker roles.
To this end, Bus Éireann held fe- male driver recruitment open days at bus stations in Dublin and Cork earlier this year.
SIPTU Organiser, Andrew Quigley, said: “SIPTU members welcome Bus Éireann holding female driver recruitment open days.
“Women bus drivers play a vital role in supporting quality transportation services.
“Their presence ensures diverse perspectives and experiences in the transport industry, leading to a more inclusive and responsive public transport system. Women bus drivers as skilled professionals, contribute to enhancing safety measures, punctuality and providing customer service.
“Bus Eireann actively recruiting women bus drivers produces role models that will inspire others to pursue a career in what is seen as a male-dominated sector.”
He added: “These women create a positive impact on society foster- ing equality and reinforcing the importance of equal opportunities for all.
“They join a team dedicated and
committed to support the overall quality and efficiency of Bus Éireann’s public transport network throughout Ireland.”
This first appeared in SIPTU Liberty July/August 2023.