Bin workers in Sandwell start their second week of strike action
Members of the GMB Union are striking over pay
Members of the GMB Union are walking out for their second week in a dispute with employer Serco over pay.
Strike action began last Monday (5th) and is finishing on Thursday (15th).
But organisers say they are not afraid to extend these dates if an agreement isn't reached.
The GMB Union said Serco Sandwell – the outsourced refuse provider – has refused to meet the rate of inflation so far in pay offers.
The industrial action covers those working on street cleansing, waste site (tip), waste collections (drivers and loaders on the bins), administration and the transfer station.
Justine Jones, GMB Organiser, said:
“Serco have failed to recognise and value the work of refuse workers across our Borough.
“To impose a real terms pay cut in the midst of the worst cost of living crisis in a generation is a disgrace.
“The workers are clear - Serco need to get back around the table with an offer that properly reflects their value before it’s too late".
Last year, Sandwell council told Serco, the company behind bin collections in the borough, to shape up or lose its contract.
A Sandwell council spokesperson said: “The services Serco provide are extremely important for our residents. As a council we will be working hard to ensure that any disruption is kept to an absolute minimum and we urge Serco to work with its employees and the trade unions to find a resolution to the dispute.
“We hope that industrial action can be avoided but if it goes ahead we will ensure residents are kept up-to-date on the proposed strike schedule and on changes or delays to waste and recycling services via the Sandwell council website, Twitter, Facebook and the email updates service.”