Mark Whitehead 06 June 2016

Councils urged to stop using firms who blacklisted workers

Councils and other public bodies are being urged to stop giving work to companies who were found to be involved in blacklisting construction workers.

Seven years ago when the Information Commissioner's Office seized a Consulting Association database of 3,213 construction workers and environmental activists, used by 44 companies to vet new recruits and keep out of employment trade union and health and safety activists.

It has cost leading building firms tens of millions of pounds after an out of court settlement last month in which about £50m was paid out in compensation to 771 workers.

Justin Bowden, national officer of the GMB union, said: 'Having established that the construction companies lied and denied before finally caving in and paying their way out of a hugely embarrassing trial, it is time now for local authorities and other public bodies to stand by their promises to stop using blacklisting companies.

'GMB will be ensuring all local authorities are fully informed about their obligations in relation to procurement and blacklisting companies, and where taxpayers' money is spent.'

Balfour Beatty, Carillion, Costain, Kier, Laing O'Rourke, Sir Robert McAlpine, Skanska UK and Vinci said last month they had settled the litigation, bringing an end to all legal claims.

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Senior/Principal Regeneration Officer

Fareham Borough Council
£45,465 - £55,379
Our town centre regeneration is moving from planning to delivery, and we're looking for someone who wants to help make regeneration happen. Fareham, Hampshire
Recuriter: Fareham Borough Council

Digi-go Driver

Essex County Council
Up to £25959.00 per annum
Digi-go DriverPermanent, Full Time£25,959 per annumLocation
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Team Manager - Kinship Team

Cheshire East Council
£49,658 - £56,809 per annum
If you're an experienced social care leader with a passion for family-centred practice, we'd love to hear from you. Crewe, Cheshire
Recuriter: Cheshire East Council

Vulnerable Pupils Locality Lead

Cheshire East Council
£40,444 - £43,149 per annum
If you're passionate about making a difference and supporting both children and colleagues to succeed, we'd love to hear from you Crewe, Cheshire
Recuriter: Cheshire East Council

Drive Case Manager

Cheshire East Council
£35,412 - £39,152 per annum
Make a real difference to families and individuals facing complex challenges. Cheshire
Recuriter: Cheshire East Council
Linkedin Banner