FCC strikers were supported by Socialist Party members and Hull trade union council, 1.3.18, photo by Keith Gibson

FCC strikers were supported by Socialist Party members and Hull trade union council, 1.3.18, photo by Keith Gibson   (Click to enlarge: opens in new window)

Despite sub-zero temperatures from the “Beast from the East” on the first morning of the strike and intimidating tactics from the local management, FCC recycling workers are standing firm.

This is an inspirational strike by Unison members who are battling to win decent sick pay for all of the workers at the Wilmington plant in Hull.

A feature of the dispute is the solidarity from council bin workers from Hull and the East Riding councils. Not one council bin wagon has crossed the picket line.

The picket line has been well supported by trade unionists. Labour council candidates have also visited the picket line, as has Councillor Alan Clarke, the portfolio holder for waste collection in Hull, and Emma Hardy, MP for Hull West and Hessle.

This support has been welcomed, but the strikers need Councillor Clarke to put pressure on FCC to meet the just demands of the strikers. Workers will increasingly wonder why Hull Labour council is contracting its recycling out to such a company.

FCC is a multinational company with an HQ in Madrid. It has made huge profits but clearly doesn’t care a jot for its workforce.

The striking workers know they are in for a long struggle but are determined to carry on until they win.

  • Please send messages of support to Adrian Kennett (secretary of Hull Unison) and Mick Whale (secretary of Hull Trades Council). Cheques should be made payable to Hull Unison.
  • Both messages and cheques should be sent to Unison, Town Hall Chambers 39, Alfred Gelder Street, Hull HU1 2AG
  • Email [email protected],co,uk and [email protected]