Solihull bin strike confirmed - here’s when it will take place
Refuse workers say they want a pay rise to keep them in line with the current industry average
Bin workers in Solihull are set to take strike action over a pay dispute.
The strike could affect thousands of homes in the borough after refuse workers voted to take action.
Almost 100 refuse workers will walk out for five days from 28 March.
The workforce is employed by Amey Services Limited, a private firm contracted by Solihull Council.
Dave Warwick, GMB Union organiser, said:“Time is running out; Amey has just two weeks to get round the table with GMB Union and stop massive disruption for the people of Solihull.
“A pay rise that means no more than the Real Living Wage for some, and nothing at all for others.
“These workers were on duty right through the pandemic and now they want to be paid at least the industry average.
“Bosses need to negotiate with GMB in good faith and avoid rubbish collecting in the streets of Solihull.”
What has Amey said about the strike?
Amey said it aligned its salaries with the Real Living Wage in 2021 and increased pay for employees working on the Solihull contract.
An Amey spokeswoman, said: “Amey is extremely disappointed that following the ballot outcome, the GMB have informed us of their intention to carry out Industrial Strike Action from Monday 28 March until Friday 1 April 2022.
“We have offered the GMB a pay increase of 4.21%, in line with the Real Living Wage increase, from 1 April 2022.
“This offer came on top of a pay increase of between 6% and 12% for drivers in Solihull in October, and in the last 12 months we have enhanced employee benefits, increased paid leave and life insurance.
“We remain committed to positive industrial relations with GMB and hope that an agreement can still be met to avoid Industrial Strike Action later this month.
“We are confident with a total workforce of over 280 people, that despite the proposed action we will be able to deliver our services without significant disruption to our client Solihull MBC and its residents.
“Throughout all of these discussions we continue to ensure that our employees are supported and kept informed.”
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