THE Unite Union has served notice on Warrington Borough Council of a third round of bin strike action, accusing the council of “a lack of urgency” to resolve the pay dispute.
It is understood the third round of action will extend the current strike action from November 6 to 20.
A Unite spokesperson said: “Unite has served its 3rd action notice as a direct result of the complete lack of urgency shown by the Council towards resolving this dispute. It is preposterous that residents will now have to suffer further disruption because the Council can’t convene a meeting in a timely manner, as was agreed. The Officers at Warrington Council may wish to drag their heels and hope that this problem goes away, but I can guarantee you that Unite is going nowhere until we deliver a negotiated settlement for our members.”
Meanwhile, some bin collections have been taking place this week with two vehicles making collections for those registered for assisted bin collections.
The council has been asked for a comment on the latest action.
Previously the council has stated: “The basis of the strike action is because of a national pay dispute. While it is not appropriate for us to negotiate locally just with UNITE about a national pay issue, we are maintaining an open dialogue with UNITE members in Warrington to listen to their concerns. We are happy to discuss local issues with all of our recognised Trade Unions, but this must be through our existing formal channels.
“We understand that given the prolonged and unsettled period caused by the bin strikes, green and blue bins will remain unemptied for several weeks.”
Some of the town’s recycling centres have extended hours to deal with demand – although the Sandy Lane one in Stockton Heath is currently only open from 10 am-4 pm.
⚠️ Assisted bin collections ⚠️
While the bin strikes are ongoing, we are able to confirm that two bin wagons are making collections today. pic.twitter.com/dzS0yGocli
— Warrington Borough Council (@WarringtonBC) October 24, 2023
2 Comments
Well someone is telling lies, either the council is willing to discuss through channels to all trade unions or they are sticking their heads up in the air! And not willing to negotiate at all, like other councils have done, but as usual the residents suffer, remember all this when the next elections come round.
SACK ALL THE BINMEN!
GET AGENCY STAFF TO REPLACE THEM!
THIS IS A ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH ISSUE WITH BINS NOT EMPTIED FOR OVER 6 WEEKS NOW!