Thames lockkeepers vote to strike
It could affect stretches of the Thames through Berkshire and south Oxfordshire
River Thames weir and lockkeepers, employed by the Environment Agency, have voted to strike over safety concerns.
The GMB say more than 90 per cent voted to walk out over ‘budget-driven decisions’ that are ‘putting people and property at risk’ on a huge 98 per cent turnout.
There are only 52 permanent trained staff on the river, 10 planned agency posts which expire at the end of this year but yet to be filled.
According to a 2008 EA assessment, more than 90 staff were needed during peak season.
GMB will now meet with members to discuss next steps, with strikes possible early as June.
Enough
Kevin Brandstatter, GMB National Officer said:
"Our River Thames weir and lockkeepers are passionate, dedicated workers. They live and work with River users and don’t want to go on strike.
“But there are only 52 staff doing the work of 90 - it’s just not safe.
“They’ve gone above and beyond backwards to keep people safe - but enough is enough.
"They have the support of boaters, river users, those who live on and by the river and hikers. They now feel withdrawing their labour is the only way to get their message across to the Environment Agency.”
Disappointing
An Environment Agency spokesperson said:
“It is disappointing that our lockkeepers have chosen to strike.
“We have been working with the lockeepers over the last few months to try and avoid such action being taken. To be clear, we have not proposed any cuts to jobs or services, and are committed to continuing to work with and listen to them to modernise the service we offer.
“We will ensure our locks and weirs continue to function over any strike period.”