Wealden bin strike to go ahead

Workers have rejected Biffa's latest offer and will down tools on Monday

Similar action was taken in Worthing recently
Author: Adam GoacherPublished 29th Apr 2022
Last updated 29th Apr 2022

A bin strike is Wealden is going to go ahead after talks fell through.

The GMB Union has confirmed that refuse workers will down tools from Monday.

They're taking action for two weeks rejecting the latest offer from waste collection firm Biffa.

It follows similar strike action in Brighton, Eastbourne and Worthing recently.

Mark Turner, GMB B50 Branch Secretary said: “We postponed strike plans to consult members on Biffa’s offer which was resoundingly rejected.

We were hopeful that, with senior management being on site, they might try to persuade staff not to strike by meeting with us to resolve the disagreement around pay.

“Unfortunately, our delaying the strike for today’s meeting has not resulted in anything really new or positive for our members, which could have resulted in our members seeking to further postpone or even cancel the strike action.

“Biffa’s Managing Director Roger Edwards has confirmed to GMB that we have now received the company’s final offer and that in fact this offer will be withdrawn should action commence on 2 May.”

A joint statement from Wealden District Council and BIFFA says: 'Waste collection services within Wealden District are carried out by waste and recycling contractor Biffa on behalf of the Council.

"Following notification of strike action by the GMB Union members, Biffa have made an improved offer which the Union will put forward to their members on Monday, May 2.

"If strike action goes ahead, we will do everything we can to maintain services and minimise disruption for residents.

"Updates will be made to the Council’s website daily from Monday.'

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