Refuse workers employed by Veolia have begun indefinite strike action as part of the trade union Unite’s dispute over union recognition.
Unite claimed that nearly 100 refuse workers at the Lumley Street depot, who are members of the union, are on strike after Veolia did not recognise Unite as their union.
Veolia disputed the number of workers who are taking part in the industrial action, claiming only 33 Unite members are on strike and “over 90% of its services” are running as usual.
The union said it represents 80% of the depot’s workforce and has a national bargaining agreement with Veolia across numerous depots in the UK.
However, Veolia said Unite represents 47% of the workforce at the depot and 39% of the overall workforce across the contract.
Without an agreement in place, Unite cannot negotiate on behalf of the workforce over issues including pay, conditions, and safety.
Veolia said the dispute is actually between Unite and the general trade union GMB over, which represents the majority of its workforce.
Veolia said, that because of its existing recognition agreement with GMB, it is unable to enter into an agreement with Unite unless by arrangement with GMB.
The waste management company urged the unions to engage with the Trade Union Congress (TUC) and resolve the dispute over membership and recognition.
Circular Online has approached GMB for comment.
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham accused Veolia of “union-busting”. Unite regional officer Shane Sweeting said Veolia could “end the dispute tomorrow” by recognising Unite as the workers’ chosen union.
A Veolia spokesperson apologised to residents for any delays to bin collections and called on Unite and the GMB to immediately engage with the TUC to find a resolution.
