4-day DVLA strike starts today
The PCS Union says ts members are concerned about Covid safety
Today staff at the DVLA headquarters in Swansea will begin industrial action – as they start their four day strike
They say they are concerned about Covid safety at the site.
Mark Serwotka from the Public and Commercial Services union said vulnerable workers need to be protected:
"There are currently over 300 people attending site every day who have underlying health conditions who should clearly be sent home immediately. But then we want an agreement that not just deals with how we are going to deal with them now but also one that means we're prepared if a third wave of the pandemic breaks out later on this year."
"Lets hope the DVLA do the right thing because if they don't the PCS Union and our members are determined to fight on until we believe this workplace is safe."
A DVLA Spokesperson said:
“There is currently not a single member of staff in the 10 day isolation period, out of a workforce of more than 6,000.
“DVLA has ensured that it has followed Welsh government guidance at every single point throughout the pandemic having consistently worked with Public Health Wales, Environmental Health and Swansea Bay Health Board to introduce a wide range of safety measures.
"This has enabled DVLA staff to continue to deliver essential services to the public right across the UK in a COVID-19 secure way.
“It is disappointing that the PCS is pushing ahead with industrial action which will affect motorists just as restrictions are easing, and the UK vaccination rollout programme is in full swing.
“DVLA’s online services will operate as normal during this period of strike action and we advise customers to use those wherever possible. Those posting paper applications to DVLA or trying to reach our Contact Centre are likely to experience delays.”