Strike action has now been cancelled - here is our latest story: Redbridge Council and Unite announce bin strikes cancelled | Ilford Recorder

 

A ballot is being held to decide whether a two-week bin strike by waste service workers in Redbridge can be avoided.

Redbridge Council and Unite the Union have confirmed they are aware of a ballot being held to decide if refuse workers will strike. 

The two-week action which was planned to start today (August 22) was announced by the trade union on August 8. 

A spokesperson for Unite the Union said: "If (the) ballot passes they will return to work."

The strikes were announced by the union earlier this month amid claims that employees of the Redbridge Civic Services are "unhappy". 

Unite claimed factors that played into workers' dissatisfaction included pressure to work overtime on weekend, extra hours beyond those contracted and consistent late starts and finishes due to vehicle breakdowns. 

Redbridge Council issued an update yesterday, August 21, reporting they had held negotiations with Unite the Union and Redbridge Civic Services. 

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A spokesperson said: "Redbridge Civic Services (RCS) have offered an extensive support package which RCS have told us has been well-received by its workers.

"Through these meetings, they have gained a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by staff and are actively working to ensure the necessary support is provided.

"We are committed to putting residents at the forefront of our efforts, minimising any impact on bin collections while also ensuring that workers receive the best possible deal."

A Redbridge Council spokesperson confirmed to The Recorder this morning that industrial action had not begun. 

They said: "Industrial action has not started. Discussions are still ongoing."

We await updates from both parties on the outcome of the ballot.