‘Victory for the workers who stood firm’

Unite members who provided essential services during the height of the pandemic have voted to suspend their six week strike after ongoing talks with Thurrock Council delivered a breakthrough, it was announced today (May 21).

Around 90 workers in the waste and recycling department at Thurrock Council have been on strike since April 13, 2021.

The workers faced losing between £1,200 and £3,800 a year – but the Council has now made positive changes to the original proposal which means members will not have a reduction to their pay.
The workers will return to work on Monday, May 24. The result was welcomed by Unite regional officer Michelle Cook.

“This deal is a victory for the workers who stood firm for six weeks in a strike to defend their pay,” commented Cook.

“The workers, and the residents of Thurrock will be pleased that the council has amended its’ plans, and services can get back to normal.

“These essential workers, who were applauded for their work through the pandemic, now deserve to be applauded for the solidarity and determination they showed. When workers organise, workers win,” she added.

By Ciaran Naidoo