Croydon refuse workers in pay win

Strike action involving refuse workers employed by Veolia on the outsourced Croydon council contract has been called off after workers accepted an improved pay offer.

Strikes were due to begin this Thursday (June 16) for a three week period.

The workers have voted to accept an improved pay offer worth 8.5 per cent and an additional one off bonus of £750, which is worth an additional 3.4 per cent for the lowest paid, a total of 11.9 per cent.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said, “This deal puts much-needed money into our members’ pockets at a tough time. Well done to our members for taking a stand and supporting each other. Their solidarity sent a clear message to Veolia that our members were determined to win a better deal on pay.

“Once again, workers can see the very real benefits of belonging to Unite, a union committed to defending and enhancing the jobs, pay and conditions of its members.”

Unite regional officer Clare Keogh added, “This was a significant dispute and Unite will be building on this pay deal in future negotiations with Veolia to further improve our members pay and conditions on this contract.

“Going forward it is hoped that there will now be more positive industrial relations with Veolia.”

By Barckley Sumner