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

Deputy Manager, Supported Accomodation Service

Durham County Council
Grade 11, £42,123 - £46,579 per annum
Be the Difference. Build Futures. Change Lives. Every young person deserves someone who believes in them. Someone who sees their potential, celebrate Durham
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Head of Children's Social Care

Durham County Council
£139,874 per annum
At Durham County Council, we are ambitious for our children, young people and families. We are committed to ensuring every child is safe, supported an Spennymoor
Recuriter: Durham County Council

School Crossing Patrol

Durham County Council
Grade 1 £3,781 (approx.) £13.27 per hour
Join our School Crossing Patrol Service!   Are you punctual and reliable? Do you have good communication skills and a strong sense of community spirit Peterlee
Recuriter: Durham County Council

School Crossing Patrol

Durham County Council
Grade 1 £4,180 (approx.) £13.27 per hour
Join our School Crossing Patrol Service!   Are you punctual and reliable? Do you have good communication skills and a strong sense of community spirit Newton Aycliffe
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Two Enhanced Teaching Assistants - EYFS

Durham County Council
£27,274 - £29,542
Temporary Contract until 31/08/2027 Full Time - 37 hours per week Term Time Only + 2 weeks Required to start Monday 4th January 2027.   We are looking Durham
Recuriter: Durham County Council
Linkedin Banner