Dave Griffiths, Coventry Socialist Party
Coventry council’s HGV drivers have now entered the 27th week of strike action in pursuance of a just pay deal.
After all this time, the Labour council has finally found the money – money they had all along – to make an improved offer, which workers are now considering moving to ballot on.
The council has spent in excess of £5 million trying to break the strike and the Unite trade union in the workforce. This is money that could have restored services, cut during years of Tory government and Labour council austerity.
As the people of Coventry learn about the £5 million wasted in not paying a decent wage, there will be disgust.
The dispute has been bitter, as drivers were outrageously accused of earning £52,000 a year, and as the council organised a strike-breaking alternative refuse service.
But drivers have shown great resolve in not being intimidated, and have won an improved offer.
They have also been a major part of Unite the Union’s many strikes, which are part of the working-class fightback against the greed of the wealthy, while the living standards of workers are constantly pushed down.
