Coventry bin lorry drivers renew strike mandate

In a resounding show of unity and determination, striking HGV drivers in Coventry have voted to renew their strike mandate and continue industrial action into the summer.

Putting pressure on Coventry council to settle with the union, 100 per cent of those workers who voted support continuing strike action until an agreement is reached.

The HGV drivers have been on all out-strike since January 31 in a dispute over low pay and the council’s refusal to pay the HGV refuse lorry drivers the market rate for the job.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said, “With another resounding vote, these workers are standing firm in their fight for the rate for the job. They have their union’s backing all the way.

“The truth is that Coventry Council is squandering millions in a failed attempt to break the strike, money that would be far better spent addressing low pay in this workforce and supporting local people through the cost of living crisis.

“The council’s responsibility now is to reach an agreement with Unite.”

The workers’ basic rate of pay begins at just £22,183 per annum, which is far below the pay workers receive in the private sector and well below pay rates of neighbouring councils

Unite national lead officer, Onay Kasab added, “The drivers have been on all out strike since the beginning of the year. They continue to show tremendous bravery in their battle to be paid the rate for the job. The workers have sent a powerful message to Coventry Council. They are determined to keep up the pressure until the council reach an agreement.”

By Ciaran Naidoo