Wealden bin strikes end after seven weeks

The union representing refuse workers struck a huge pay deal with the council

Author: Alan Jones, PAPublished 15th Jun 2022

A long-running strike by refuse collectors has ended after workers accepted a pay offer.

Members of the GMB union employed by contractors in Wealden, Sussex, have been taking industrial action for weeks.

The union said its members had accepted a pay offer worth up to 27%.

Kerbside collections within Wealden will resume from Wednesday.

Gary Palmer, GMB regional organiser, said: "Our members have successfully earned themselves a massive pay rise, but this is simply just reward for the demanding and very important job that they do every day.

"Refuse collection is one of the most visible services that a council provides, but it's also one of the most unappreciated until it stops.

"We would like to thank the residents of Wealden for their messages of solidarity and support throughout this lengthy dispute.

"This is a massive pay deal and it is testament to their determination and drive of the members, but this journey can be started in any workplace and by any resolute workforce, with the help of the GMB union."

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