'Do or die time' say union as talks resume today

It's 'do or die' time. That's the message from the GMB union ahead of today's crunch meeting over bin collections in North Somerset.

Six days of industrial action were planned this month in a row over pay, but they were paused for talks.

The union say if nothing is agreed today then 100 workers will stage walk outs - affecting bin collections and recycling centres.

The GMB says it is 'calling on North Somerset environment company (NSEC) to make an offer that recognises the unprecedented cost of living crisis hitting members right now'. 

Tim Northover, GMB Regional Organiser added: "The calls come as North Somerset refuse workers reject a revised offer which failed to give members a real pay rise this year, despite rampant inflation hitting 9 per cent.

"Bosses imposed a 1.75 per cent pay deal against the wishes of union members last year, which has seen members struggle to make ends meet. 

"If talks fail on Monday, more than 100 workers will walk out of recycling centres and refuse collection services run by North Somerset Environment Company. 

"The failure of talks will affect the refuse and waste collection of around 88,000 homes across Somerset.

“So far all the every offer has amounted to a real-terms pay cut in the midst of a cost of living crisis. 

“Our members also need a pay rise that properly reflects the hard work they put in every day. 

“The council need to come back with a plan to rectify it on Monday, or we’ll be forced to issue new strike dates.  

“It’s do or die time for these talks now really, this can’t go on forever.” 

Speaking last week, Councillor Mike Solomon, North Somerset Council’s executive member for neighbourhoods and community services, said: “It’s disappointing that GMB members voted against the latest offer package but I’m really pleased strike action has been called off so residents will continue to receive collections and recycling centres will be open this week as usual.

“I’d like to take this opportunity to thank our crews and those working in our recycling centres for their hard work over the busy Easter bank holiday weekend.

“The threat of industrial action isn’t over yet but we’re working really hard to limit the disruption.

"I’d like to repeat my thanks to residents for their patience, understanding and cooperation during this very challenging time. I encourage residents to check our website homepage and social media channels for the latest updates as the situation is evolving at pace.”

Brian Veale, Managing Director at North Somerset Environment Company, said: “Although the outcome of the ballot is not what we would have wanted, I’m encouraged to learn that there wasn’t much of a margin between those in favour and those against accepting the latest package.

“We remain willing to engage with GMB and look forward to our next meeting where, with assistance from ACAS, we hope to draw a conclusion to these negotiations.”

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• north somerset bin strikes