After 44 days of strike action, bin workers and GMB members at Wealden District Council in East Sussex have accepted a new offer and returned to work. Gary Palmer, GMB Regional Organiser told the Socialist: “Our members are satisfied. We’ve achieved our aims. Retaliation from employers and the police may become more common but let’s be clear, these strikes are a result of poor management and poor pay. I’ve seen a big change in the workforce, every attack made them stronger and stronger, more resolute. The result means that we have secured bonus payments into the wage and that means an increase for everyone between 22% and 27% over the next two years.”
Gary and two other GMB officials were arrested on the picket line during the dispute. “Our court case will be heard in Hastings on Wednesday 29 June. We have to defend ourselves, these rules are unfair and it’s time to stand up. We’d welcome support at the court from everyone.”
- Solidarity protest called by Hastings TUC 9.30am, Wednesday 29 June, Hastings Magistrates Court, Bohemia Road, Hastings TN34 1ND
