A prominent Birmingham Bishop and community activist has stepped forward in a bid to resolve the city's protracted bin dispute, offering to mediate talks even on Christmas Day.
Community Leader Issues Urgent Plea
Bishop Desmond Jaddoo has written to both the Unite union and Birmingham City Council leadership, urging them to return to negotiations. He warned that the ongoing industrial action, which escalated in the Spring, is severely impacting the health and wellbeing of residents, particularly in inner-city areas.
His intervention follows a community meeting on December 5, which was attended by a Unite member. Bishop Jaddoo stated that residents expressed profound worry over the dispute's effect on public health, neighbourhood cleanliness, and social harmony.
Public Health Fears Mount as Rubbish Piles Up
The Bishop highlighted the dire situation on the streets, where black bin bags and general waste have been accumulating for months. He reported personally helping to collect around 80 sacks of trash in the Newtown shopping area alone.
"A couple of people have said they are wearing masks because of the stench in the Newtown area," Bishop Jaddoo revealed, underscoring the immediate environmental health crisis. He cautioned that with the Christmas period approaching, the problem is likely to worsen significantly.
"Name the Time and Place"
In his letters to Unite General Secretary Sharon Graham and Birmingham City Council leader John Cotton, the Bishop made a direct and unwavering offer. "Name the time and place and I will be there," he said.
Demonstrating his commitment, he added, "I'm prepared to go on Christmas Day because at the end of the day, we will be going into the New Year with this." He confirmed that Unite has acknowledged his request and he is awaiting a formal response from the council.
Bishop Jaddoo emphasised the community's strong desire for a swift resolution, stating residents believe Birmingham needs all parties to reach a balanced and sustainable agreement without further delay.
Meanwhile, the dispute shows little sign of abating, with plans announced for a major megapicket scheduled for January 30.
