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

Apprentice - Business & Administration

Essex County Council
Up to £15435.00 per annum
Apprentice - Business & AdministrationFixed Term, Full Time£15,435 Per AnnumLocation
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Street Lighting Project Engineer

North Yorkshire Council
£38,220 - £42,839 per annum
Office base is the Leeming Bar Street Lighting Depot. Leeming Bar, Northallerton
Recuriter: North Yorkshire Council

LGV Driver

North Yorkshire Council
£31,537-£34,434 per annum pro rata
Would you like a rewarding role that allows you to work outside in some of the most scenic places in the country? Harrogate, North Yorkshire
Recuriter: North Yorkshire Council

Environmental Plant Vehicle Operator

North Yorkshire Council
£27,254- £29,064 per annum
Working in small crews, you will be collecting waste from the local area using small collection vehicles. Harrogate, North Yorkshire
Recuriter: North Yorkshire Council

Catering Assistant

North Yorkshire Council
£13.28 - £13.28 per hour
As part of our catering team, you will be performing a variety of tasks to help prepare tasty, nutritious meals Beverley, East Riding of Yorkshire
Recuriter: North Yorkshire Council
Linkedin Banner