Birmingham bin workers to strike in pay dispute
Unite says 150 workers face losing £8,000 a year because of the removal of a waste recycling and collection officer role
Refuse collectors in Birmingham are planning to strike in the new year in a dispute over pay.
Members of Unite in the city will launch a series of strikes from January 6 and ban overtime from January 2, which the union said will cause "considerable disruption."
Unite said 150 workers face losing £8,000 a year because of the abolition of a waste recycling and collection officer role.
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: "Unite is not prepared to see its workers face a huge pay cut, nor will it allow the council to recklessly cut safety critical roles which risks the safety of workers and the general public."
A Birmingham City Council spokesperson said: "We are disappointed that this action is taking place, but we are continuing to work through the dispute resolution procedure. We would like to assure residents that we will do all we can to minimise disruption during any potential industrial action.
"We thank residents for their understanding and patience during this challenging period and assure everyone that we are committed to resolving the situation in the best interest of all parties involved. Up-to-date information will be provided via our website, social media and encourage residents to sign up to bin collection newsletter.
"Ensuring the safety of our employees and residents is taken extremely seriously, and health and safety is everyone's responsibility.
"We have undertaken steps to ensure Birmingham City Council colleagues affected by the change in working arrangements are supported."
Unite named strike dates as January 6, 14, 22, 30, February 7, 10,18, 26, March 6, 14, 25, and April 2.