GMB, the union for refuse workers, has confirmed that the strike action scheduled in Ashford, Kent for two weeks from this Monday [6 March] has been called off.
The union members, who are employed by the council’s waste contractor Biffa, have accepted an further increase on pay in addition to their pay rise awarded from last April.
The pay deal will see drivers receive an average of almost £2,500 and loaders over £1,000, in addition to commitments on future pay rises.
Frank Macklin, GMB Regional Organiser said:
“Our members have accepted the offer, but GMB actually thinks they could have won more by taking action, so no doubt the company are delighted at the news that the strike has been called off.
“To be clear though, this is still a great result for these workers, which gives them money straight into their pockets at a time when everybody is feeling the pinch and all without taking a single day of strike action.
“These are low-paid workers who deliver a vital service to the whole community and carry out a dirty and physically very demanding job every day come rain or shine, so it is only right that this gets properly recognised by management.
“Today’s pay settlement shows the power of being in the GMB and of being an active member of that union.”
