BBC Political Reporter, Birmingham
BBC News, West Midlands
EPA
A strike by waste collectors in Birmingham is continuing after the latest pay proposal from the city council was met with an “overwhelming” rejection by workers.
This rejection follows a stalemate of about a month between the Unite union members and the Labour-led council, leading to a significant accumulation of rubbish in the streets.
Unite has criticized the city’s council for offering a “partial” deal deemed “entirely insufficient,” as it does not resolve potential pay reductions impacting 200 drivers. The council had previously claimed that their offer was fair.
Unite’s national lead officer, Onay Kasab, stated that 97% of those who participated in the vote turned down the deal, with a turnout of 60%. He emphasized that the proposal did not adequately address the workers’ concerns.
According to the union’s general secretary, Sharon Graham, the rejection was expected since the workers cannot afford substantial pay cuts due to poor decision-making affecting their compensation.
The conflict arises from the council’s removal of Waste Recycling and Collection Officer (WRCO) positions, which Unite asserts are crucial for health and safety. Approximately 170 jobs might see a reduction of up to £8,000 yearly as a result, while many others would also miss out on potential pay progression.
A council spokesperson expressed disappointment at the voting results but claimed their offer was fair. They argued that keeping a role nonexistent in other councils could expose them to further equality pay claims, given the male-dominated nature of refuse collection jobs.
Despite the ongoing unrest, the council stated that each employee affected by the WRCO role elimination could transition into an equivalent role, receive LGV Driver training, or opt for voluntary redundancy packages.
