Bin men strike to set for 24 hours in South Ayrshire
Unite the Union has announced three 24 hour strike stoppages, as part of the ongoing dispute with South Ayrshire Council, which will affect waste collections across South Ayrshire.
Unite the Union has announced three 24 hour strike stoppages, as part of the ongoing dispute with South Ayrshire Council, which will affect waste collections across South Ayrshire. The stoppages will take place on: Friday 22 April - 24 hour stoppage starting 5:45am Wednesday 27 April - 24 hour stoppage starting 5:45am Thursday 5 May - 24 hour stoppage starting 5:45am The industrial action is in relation to the introduction of ‘double-shifting’ ¬– early shifts and late shifts – which means fewer lorries are needed. This means the necessary savings are made without the loss of jobs. The employees affected all receive an additional 5% payment for the new working pattern. The Council is continuing to discuss the implementation of the new working arrangements with Unite, while ensuring the continued operation of the double shifts and the preservation of the established collection days for households across South Ayrshire. In the meantime, the Council is working on contingency arrangements for the planned strike stoppages. Householders should leave their bins out for collection as usual and they will be uplifted as quickly as possible – although this may not be on the scheduled collection day. Household waste can also be taken to the recycling centre in Ayr, which will be open during the stoppage days. Mike Newall, Head of Neighbourhood Services said: "I am disappointed that Unite the Union has announced further stoppages, but we will continue our ongoing discussions and we thank our householders and business customers for their patience and co-operation during the industrial action."