GMB union warns of Barrow bin collection disruption as workers ballot for six-day strike

A grey wheelie bin overflowing with rubbish

A union is warning of disruption for up to 33,000 homes as its refuse collectors ballot for six days of strike action.

GMB Union has announced that FCC Environment workers will walk out from March 30 to April 1 and then April 6 to April 8.

The industrial action is a result of “their fight for a living wage”, GMB Union said.

More than three-quarters of the workforce voted to strike, the union said.

Michael Hall, GMB Organiser, said: “All these refuse collectors want is a wage they can live on.

“We’re facing the biggest fall in living standards in fifty years – since the days of rationing.

“GMB members at FCC want a modest pay rise so they don’t have to choose between putting the heating on and feeding their families.

“FCC bosses can stop these strikes before they cause havoc for the people of Barrow – just offer these keyworkers the pay rise they deserve.”

Responding to the decision to strike, the waste collection company issued a statement.

“FCC Environment remains disappointed that GMB members have voted to continue strike action,” said a spokeswoman.

“The company has made it clear that its fair offer (for April 2021 negotiations) of 2.2 per cent is final and this has been communicated clearly to the GMB to take back to its members. Indeed, lower offers have been accepted by the GMB elsewhere, as have other negotiations across other areas of FCC.

“FCC Environment once again makes it clear that this offer is for 2021 and until this is resolved negotiations for the 2022 pay award cannot begin.”

The business confirmed that its crews are working exceptionally hard and are doing everything possible to collect waste and recycling from residents. “We are proud of our team for carrying on and delivering a good service in trying times,” the spokeswoman added.