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

Functional Family Therapy Practitioner

Cheshire East Council
£43,149 - £49,658
Do you want to be part of an innovative service that delivers evidence-based interventions and helps families thrive? Macclesfield, Cheshire
Recuriter: Cheshire East Council

Director of Adult Social Care

Nottingham City Council
£101,636 - £112,285 per annum (SLMG1)
As a key member of the Directorate Leadership Team, you will provide visible and effective leadership Nottinghamshire
Recuriter: Nottingham City Council

Director of Adults Service Development

Nottingham City Council
£101,636 - £112,285 per annum (SLMG 1)
This is a strategic improvement and assurance leadership role focused on driving the Adults Social Care improvement journey Nottingham, Nottinghamshire
Recuriter: Nottingham City Council

Adult Social Care and Commissioning Director Roles

Nottingham City Council
£101,636 - £112,285 per annum (SLMG 1)
This is an exciting time to join Nottingham City Council and help shape the future of Adult Social Care for the city.  Nottingham, Nottinghamshire
Recuriter: Nottingham City Council

Director of Education

Nottingham City Council
£109,702 - £113,977 (Soulbury Grade 47 – 50)
We are now seeking visionary senior leaders to help shape the next phase of Nottingham's improvement journey. Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, Hybrid
Recuriter: Nottingham City Council
Linkedin Banner