GMB Surrey bin strike suspended for Monday to allow talks to progress
Members will return to work on Monday as talks progress, but will strike Tuesday if talks breakdown, GMB says
GMB, the Union for all refuse and recycling workers, have said that the refuse collectors and drivers working for council contractor Amey, in Elmbridge and Surrey Heath, will return to work on Monday 8th August as a sign of goodwill as Acas talks begin.
Amey refuse workers in Elmbridge and Surrey Heath have been on strike this week over pay. The strike is due to continue for another 2 weeks and further strike dates could be announced if talks fail.
Paul Grafton, GMB Officer said:
“We are pleased there will be talks with Amey at Acas on Monday. GMB is serious about finding a satisfactory resolution to this dispute, we hope that is reciprocated.
“GMB members will return to work on Monday, as a gesture of goodwill.
“GMB are keen to see our members receive the pay award they deserve and a swift settlement of the dispute. However if talks breakdown members will return to picket lines Tuesday morning and we will not hesitate to issue more strike dates if we do not see progress at Acas.
““These are some of the lowest paid workers in one of the wealthiest parts of the country. They provide a vital service and are proud of what they do. Most have been offered £11.13 per hour (£434 per week) and are battling to be paid enough to support themselves and their families against a backdrop of rapidly rising prices, whilst Amey made tens of millions of pounds in profits.”
