Thomas Bridge 14 August 2015

Strike plans spark fears of 'stinking bins' in borough

A borough has been warned it could face 'stinking bins' as 100 refuse collectors plan two days of strikes over a pay dispute.

Workers employed by Veolia for Bromley Council could walk out on 24 August and 3 and 4 of September over what trade union Unite described as 'years of below inflation pay awards'.

Around 100 trade union members voted 85% in favour of the strike dates.

Employees were said to be 'angry' and 'very unhappy' over recent pay rises.

Bromley Council has seen its services bought to a halt multiple times this year over industrial action as trade unions take action over 'mass privatisation' at the town hall.

This latest threat of action would see rubbish collection falling a day behind in August, with efforts to catch up on services hampered by the second walkout at the beginning of September.

Unite regional officer Onay Kasab said: 'Workers are angry, as they have to cover heavier and heavier workloads following a number of rounds being cut.

'For years they have had below inflation pay rises - but now that inflation has dropped, the employers are happy to use it as a bench mark - so it's a catch-and-match up claim.

'This is a very unhappy and demoralised workforce, being asked to take on more work but not being recognised for it.

'Veolia has a final chance for talks - we urge them to take that opportunity. The alternative is for the strike to go-ahead with the prospect of uncollected dustbins causing a stink in the late summer sunshine.'

Cllr Colin Smith, executive councillor for environment, said: 'Unite’s latest attempt to manufacture a pointless politically motivated strike helps neither the collection crews nor Bromley residents in the slightest. I remain hopeful that the majority of Veolia employees will consider all the issues carefully, refuse to allow themselves to be used in this manner and that common-sense will prevail.'

A spokesperson for Veolia in Bromley said: 'We have been notified this morning of possible strike action in Bromley and are seeking to work closely with Unite to resolve this situation.'

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Integrated Front Door Social Worker

Cheshire East Council
£40,444 - £43,149 per annum
Be part of a service that makes a real difference to children and families at the earliest stage of support! Crewe, Cheshire
Recuriter: Cheshire East Council

SEND Caseworker

Cheshire East Council
£40,444 - £43,149 per annum
We’re on a meaningful journey in Children’s Social Care and we’d love for you to be part of it. Crewe, Cheshire
Recuriter: Cheshire East Council

Teacher

Durham County Council
£32,916 - £51,048 MPS1 - UPS3
WHAT IS INVOLVED?  The team at Aycliffe Secure Centre provide a caring, trauma informed and aspirational environment for young people aged between 10 Newton Aycliffe
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Portage Worker - SEND and Inclusion Senior Specialist

Durham County Council
Grade 8, £33,673 - £37,563 pro rata per annum
We are looking for a compassionate, skilled and enthusiastic SEND and Inclusion Senior Specialist Support Worker to join our highly regarded Portage T Spennymoor
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Social Work Consultant

Durham County Council
Grade 13 £48,738 - £53,051
Are you an experienced children and families social worker ready to progress your career and step into a management role?   Are you passionate about w Durham
Recuriter: Durham County Council
Linkedin Banner