Devon County Council has issued fire and rehire threats to almost 1,000 staff unless they capitulate submit to inferior terms and conditions.
The move comes after union members decisively rejected the councils' proposed changes to terms and conditions to the essential car users’ allowance.
Rather than return to the negotiating table, the council has informed 834 staff of its plans, and told them to submit before 23 March, or face being given notice of termination of employment on 31 Marc - with dismissal and re engagement taking place by 1 July.
The controversial policy has also been used by P&O ferries who dismissed 800 staff without consultation and British Gas back in the winter of 2021[2].
GMB union has pledged to do ‘whatever is necessary’ to protect its members and urged the council to ‘put its toys back in the pram’ and return to the negotiating table
Jake McLean, GMB Regional Organiser said:
“By threatening our members, Devon County Council is not only undermining morale but also risking the quality of care and support that our community relies on.
“Our members have already rejected this offer; bosses need to understand that and treat our members with dignity and respect.
“It’s time for Devon County Council to put their toys back in the pram, withdraw this threat and return to the negotiating table, so we can solve this issue.
“Our members should have no doubt, we won’t stand for these bully boy tactics, and we will do whatever is necessary to ensure their voices are heard.”
