Unite pickets outside Intel site as dispute escalates

Unite members working as plumbers, fitters, welders and apprentices downed tools today (Monday 7 October) as they continue action to secure the reversal of the austerity-era cut to ‘travel time’. 

Pickets were mounted this morning outside the flagship Intel project in Co Kildare, where several Mechanical Engineering & Building Services Contractors’ Association (MEBSCA) employers are carrying out works.

In August Unite mechanical members voted overwhelmingly for industrial action in pursuit of restoration of the first hour of ‘travel time’, which was cut in the wake of the 2008 financial crash. 

Unite served notice of industrial action on MEBSCA members after talks with the group and its parent organisation, the Construction Industry Federation (CIF), broke down as a result of the employers’ refusal to engage.

A recent survey of Unite members working for MEBSCA employers found that over 80% have seen their living standards fall over the past five years.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “MEBSCA employers have enjoyed a turnover bonanza while workers have seen their living standards fall over the past five years. 

“MEBSCA bears direct responsibility for this dispute’s escalation. They can end it by coming to the table and negotiating a resolution to this dispute”.            

Unite is waiting for the employers to follow up on an initial approach made last week.  In the absence of meaningful engagement, Unite’s disputes committee has decided to escalate the action, and pickets will be placed on selected large construction sites around the country on further dates in October.

Regional officer James McCabe said, “Employers should be in no doubt regarding our members’ determination to secure a reversal of the shameful cut to travel time.

“Our members have their union’s unwavering support. It’s high time MEBSCA bosses started showing workers some respect”.

By Keith Hatch