Manchester could face bin strikes in pay dispute

Around 200 Biffa workers could walk out if they don't get a pay rise

Author: Matt SoanesPublished 25th Mar 2022

Bin workers in Manchester could go on strike in a dispute over pay.

The GMB union is balloting its members on industrial action, as they want employer Biffa to boost the wages of around 200 workers to help deal with the cost of living crisis.

It wants a pay increase above the 1.75% offered to local government workers last year.

The vote is due to open next Tuesday (29 March) and will close on April 12.

Michael Clark, GMB Regional Organiser, said:

“We’ve told Biffa several times our members have rejected the offer put forward.

“Yet they have decided to pay their final offer to our members because they think it is morally right to do so.

“Our members want more than moral recognition for working through wind, rain, hail and covid.

“This is the worst cost of living crisis for 30 years and all workers – not just HGV drivers – deserve more than a real terms pay cut.

“It’s not too late to avoid mass disruption for the people of Manchester. We are happy to return to the table and look forward to receiving an improved offer to put to our members.”

Biffa says it remains in talks with staff over a new pay offer.

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