Dates set for bin strikes in North Somerset
Time to stop kicking the can down the road and make an offer that can bring the episode to a close, says GMB union.
Last updated 30th Mar 2022
GMB has announced the dates of industrial action in the North Somerset bin strike.
Almost 100 workers at recycling centres and refuse collection services run by North Somerset Environment Company are set to walk out for six days in April; 12-13, 16 -17 and 21 – 22.
More dates under discussion after last minute talks aimed at averting the strike came to nothing last week.
Industrial action is expected to affect 88,000 homes.
Workers are angry after North Somerset Council, who set up the company last year, have only provided funding for a 4.5 per cent pay award over two years.
With inflation running at 7.8 per cent and expected to get even higher, this amounts to a big real terms pay cut.
Tim Northover, GMB Regional Organiser, said:
“We’re sad that it's come to this point, but this can’t go on forever.
“Members made their views clear a few weeks ago when they gave us the mandate to take strike action, and we were hopeful that the council would see sense and make a serious offer.
“The truth is our members have worked hard during the pandemic and our members deserve a proper pay rise.
“We hope the council can bring something to the table that can bring this to a close, but we won't let them just keep kicking the can down the road.”
North Somerset Council has issued this statement:
“Talks with GMB are still ongoing and we remain open to a resolution to avoid industrial action.
“The pay being disputed is for the April 2021/22 financial year and our offer package includes increased pay at 0.25% above inflation at that time. We believe that North Somerset Environment Company is acting fairly”.