Warning issued over Gosport refuse disruption

By Connor Steel

GOSPORT RESIDENTS have been warned about potential disruption to refuge and recycling services over the coming festive period after members of GMB chose overwhelmingly to start ‘industrial action’ later this month; the union issuing a notice to the council’s waste contractors Urbaser Ltd on Wednesday (December 6) in this pay and conditions dispute.

Ninety-two percent of members have voted for strike action from a turnout figure of nearly 90% and is set to begin from Boxing Day (December 26). It is currently likely to extend for an initial twelve days with all dates through this Christmas and New Year period; meaning that traditional kerbside collections and additional services could be seriously disrupted.

Members are campaigning to secure a pay rise during the ongoing cost of living ‘crisis’ and have decided to strike after earlier talks with the company failed; negotiators wanting £15 per hour for every HGV driver and £12 per hour for other operatives. They are further frustrated that a “flat, basic rate” is being offered for those who are working on Boxing Day.

According to a press release this is the first time that GMB have taken strike action and the members are willing to halt these measures if the company returns to the negotiating table, maybe with council support. Readers can read this full statement from GMB Regional Organiser Charlotte Gardner by clicking this link that was published early this afternoon.

PICTURED BY CONNOR STEEL: Refuse and recycling services could be disrupted across Gosport because of action.