Western Counties branch of the Communication Workers Union (CWU) have called for a ‘no’ vote in the ballot over the Royal Mail pay deal. Members are angry that the loss of pay they suffered during industrial action has not resulted in benefits gained through the negotiations.
The initiative was with the union as we approach the heavy delivery Christmas period. Management have increased the stress on the workforce by introducing new methods of working.
One postal worker reported to us that in Teignmouth, South Devon, a new employee was taken on with a contract for one hour a week. This enables management to have total flexibility over that employee – a ‘Dutch’ practice from the privatisation of the Netherland’s postal system.
One union activist described this as ‘MacMail’. Another pointed out that small offices, like Teignmouth, who don’t have a union rep currently, are open to such abuses by management.
The CWU nationally must know this is going on but what are they doing to protect their members? Management seem to be using the lull to bring in practices that will undermine the union.
Socialist Party members are actively working to support the CWU Western Counties branch in its ‘no’ vote recommendation.
The ballot closes on 27 November.
