Eastbourne Refuse Collectors To Strike For Six More days

Tuesday, 4 January 2022 07:27

By Jade McLean

GMB, the union which represents refuse collectors in Sussex, says Eastbourne bin men will strike for an extra six days after council workers tried to break the picket line.

According to the GMB, council staff that were not part of strike action, attempted to drive a vehicle out of the depot in order to make rubbish collections, however, the vehicle was prevented from leaving by a union representative.

Strike action had been scheduled for January 7 and 10, but following the incident, the GMB has announced workers will strike for a further six days from January 14 to 21.

They site "appalling conditions of employment" including lack of washing and changing facilities at the depot as well as low pay.

A statement released by Eastbourne Borough Council on Friday, Dec 31, reads:

"Council staff who are not part of the strike action were stopped by the GMB Union from carrying out refuse collections today. We apologise to all our residents for the inconvenience this action has caused.

"Earlier today (31/12/21) a representative from the GMB Union stood in front of our refuse vehicles as they attempted to leave the depot. This act was dangerous, and we are taking legal advice to avoid any repeat of this reckless behaviour.

"We are trying to resolve the situation as quickly as possible and will keep residents updated through the local media, on the council website – www.lewes-eastbourne.gov.uk - and via social media channels - @EastbourneBC

"The council’s senior management met with the GMB Union on the 22nd December and considered it a positive step forward, so it is deeply disappointing that they have taken this action today.

"Residents should take their bins back in from the kerbside until their next scheduled collection day. All additional side waste will also be removed during the next collection. "

Updates to follow.