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

Business Development Manager

North Yorkshire Council
£42,839 - £47,181 per annum
NYES is a leader in delivering high-quality traded services predominantly into the Education sector. Northallerton, North Yorkshire
Recuriter: North Yorkshire Council

Support Worker x2

Wakefield Council
Grade 6 SCP 12 £16,617.76 - SCP 18 £18,325.55 pro rata
Are you passionate about making a difference to our citizens and the district that they reside in? Wakefield, West Yorkshire
Recuriter: Wakefield Council

Early Years/KS1 Lead and Class Teacher

Durham County Council
£39,556 - £51,048
Temporary Contract until 31st August 2027. Full Time Required to start 1st Septmeber 2026.   Hesleden Primary School is looking for a passionate and m Durham
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Caretaker

Durham County Council
£24,796 (pro rata)
Whole Time- Part Time- 20 hours per week (7
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Cleaner

Durham County Council
£24,796 (pro rata to part-time working hours)
Whole Time - Part Time 12.5 hours per week (6am – 8.30am Mon – Fri) Required to start as soon as possible.   The Governors wish to appoint a reliable Consett
Recuriter: Durham County Council
Linkedin Banner