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

Community Safety Service Manager

Bristol City Council
£72,878 - £80,741
We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced community safety expert to join our senior leadership team. Bristol
Recuriter: Bristol City Council

Pre-School/Nursery Assistant

Essex County Council
Up to £25959.0000 per annum
Pre-School/Nursery AssistantFixed Term, Part Time£25,959 per annum (full time equivalent)Location
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Vocational Trainer - Health and Social Care - North Essex

Essex County Council
£29468 - £34668 per annum
Vocational Trainer - Health and Social Care - North EssexPermanent, Part Time£29,468 to £34,668 per annum (full time equivalent) Location
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Social Care Officer

Durham County Council
Grade 6
Durham County Council
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Safeguarding Team Manager

Durham County Council
Grade 14 - £50,269 - £54,495
We are seeking a highly motivated and enthusiastic Safeguarding Team Manager to lead an operational team within Adult Services. This pivotal role over Spennymoor
Recuriter: Durham County Council
Linkedin Banner