Unite Union Plans Strikes Over Pay Dispute with Wrexham Council

Unite union members in Wrexham are set to strike for several days starting on August 30, 2023, in a dispute over proposed changes to their working conditions. Approximately 100 workers from the street scene team, which includes refuse collectors and personnel responsible for parks, gardens, and highways, will walk off the job due to a decision that would result in them losing half a day’s pay for each bank holiday.

The dispute centers on Wrexham Council’s recent alteration of bin collection days from bank holiday Mondays to the following Saturdays. This change requires workers to work Saturdays as a standard duty, removing their previous flexibility to volunteer for overtime. Unite argues that this shift imposes unfair disciplinary actions against those who do not comply.

Council’s Handling Criticized by Union

Sharon Graham, General Secretary of Unite, has condemned the council’s handling of the matter, calling it “unacceptable” and a “disgrace.” She emphasized the union’s commitment to protecting its members, stating, “Unite takes a zero tolerance approach to any attacks on our members’ pay and conditions.” Graham’s comments reflect a broader concern within the union regarding worker rights in the face of management decisions.

During a recent meeting between union representatives and Wrexham councillors, a motion was unanimously passed to recommend against implementing the changes. Despite this, the council issued communications indicating that the alterations would proceed regardless, failing to provide any assurances to Unite that its recommendations would be honored.

Unite has expressed dissatisfaction with the council’s claims of having conducted a thorough consultation process. Workers reportedly had only five days to submit their views on the proposed changes, which has raised concerns about the adequacy of the council’s outreach efforts.

Financial Context and Future Implications

The council has defended its decision by citing cost-saving measures, claiming it has faced financial difficulties similar to other public services in Wales. Wrexham Council has recently received £3,808,252.13 in funding from the Welsh government for waste services, including support for the street scene team. This raises questions about the necessity of cutting workers’ pay given the additional funding.

Jo Goodchild, a regional officer for Unite, remarked that the council has failed to engage constructively with the union to resolve the issue for both the workers and the public. “The consequences of these failings are clear: residents will be left without bin collections, but that responsibility lies squarely with the council, not our members,” she stated. Goodchild called for the council to present a serious and acceptable proposal for its members.

Wrexham Council’s Interim Chief Executive, Alwyn Jones, expressed disappointment over the union’s decision to proceed with the strikes. He noted that the streetscene service is vital for the community and highlighted previous initiatives that have aimed to enhance worker pay and training, including a role upgrade that offered an annual pay increase of £1,265.

Jones mentioned that the move to Saturday bin collections was discussed in a consultation that yielded limited feedback, with only 19 out of 245 workers opposing the changes. He emphasized that this adjustment could save the council approximately £100,000 and is part of broader efforts to maintain financial stability while protecting public services.

As the strike period extends through to November 15, 2023, the situation remains tense. Both sides indicate a willingness to engage in dialogue, but the outcome will hinge on whether the council is prepared to address the union’s concerns adequately. The looming strikes will undoubtedly impact local residents and highlight the ongoing challenges faced by public sector workers across the region.