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GMB members in Cheshire West and Chester have commenced a programme of industrial action after the council announced plans to make cuts to their terms and conditions of employment.
Staff providing vital street cleansing services started an overtime ban on Christmas Eve after they voted to take action against Council plans to worsen their terms and conditions. GMB members will be joined by members of UNISON and Unite who have also voted for industrial action. Over 100 workers will be taking action.
There will be overtime bans over the busy Christmas period, and strike action in the New Year (Jan 5th) if the Council do not attempt to resolve the issue.
The Council intend to implement 7 day working whilst removing weekend and bank holiday payments and introducing fixed holidays.
Marie Saunderson, GMB Regional Organiser said:
“GMB members are angry at the imposed change in their working week and holiday arrangements and the loss of income the changes will entail. The action will lead to dirty streets which could impact upon the image and tourist industry of Chester and West Cheshire. It’s unfortunate that the Council don’t value their staff as they do their public image. That said, we are more than happy to work with the Council to provide a 7 day service but in return our members want flexible annual leave and proper recompense for working unsociable hours".
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