Waltham Forest refuse workers’ dispute continues
Waltham Forest refuse workers’ dispute continues as 96.4% indicate they will take strike action over sick pay and wage increase
On Monday 5th of September 2022, GMB London Region released the results of the recent poll after Urbaser, Waltham Forest failed to put forward a realistic offer in response to GMB’s call for a company sick scheme and higher wages.
Following concerns from GMB members at Urbaser that the hazardous conditions they work with expose them to contagious diseases and injuries, the two unions are seeking a company sick pay scheme because these members cannot afford to rely on statutory sick pay.
GMB and Unite members who work for the Spanish Multinational refuse company Urbaser in Waltham Forest have been in negotiations with their employer since February 2022.
Michael Dooley, GMB London Region Officer said:
“GMB and Unite are at an impasse and our members are angry and feel let down by the company. We do not know what Urbaser is thinking in offering 3% as a pay increase next year and denying a company sick pay scheme.
“It feels like Urbaser is provoking conflict, union members from both unions are not in any position to accept a pay deal that is so one-sided towards an employer. A pay offer of 7% and 3% next year was put forward by Urbaser with what appear to be obligations on the unions before that offer is binding. Urbaser must know this but do not seem to be concerned about the consequences.”
GMB and Unite members will now meet at depots in Waltham Forest to discuss the next steps. The poll result gives union members the confidence to keep pressure on the Urbaser to put a better deal on the table. The next step could mean moving towards a strike of Waltham Forest refuse workers.
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Contact: Michael Dooley 077 730 61798 micheal.dooley@gmb.org.uk
GMB London Region Press Office 079 7001 9643 / London.press@gmb.org.uk
