Unite the union has issued a stark warning that they are prepared to escalate the bin strike in Birmingham, despite the council leader's claim that an end is within sight. The dispute, which has dragged on for over a year, continues to anger residents ahead of the May local elections.
Councillor John Cotton, leader of the Labour-run Birmingham City Council, offered hope today by stating that the local authority is close to settling the dispute after reaching an agreement. He said he believes a new improved offer can be made and terms can be put in place that address previous issues discussed at ACAS. However, he made clear that the pre-election period prevents the council from making a final decision before May 7, the day of the local elections.
Cotton stated: 'A re-elected Labour administration under my leadership will work to get this deal approved as a matter of absolute priority. The council can then move forward and offer the people of Birmingham the services they deserve.'
Unite, in their own statement, described the development as vindication of the bin workers' struggle for a decent deal. However, the union also made clear that the situation is not fully resolved. They warned: 'If it is reneged on in anyway, then the union will escalate the dispute.' Unite also criticised government-appointed commissioners at the council, claiming they attempted to stop the offer at the eleventh hour.
Unite said negotiations over the last few months involved Sharon Graham, John Cotton, and Mayor Richard Parker, facilitated by Lord Brendan Barber. They acknowledged the roles played by Mayor Parker and Lord Barber, stating they quickly saw the deal was reasonable and doable. The union added: 'But ultimately it was the resolve of striking workers and their union that has got this ballpark deal back on the table.'
Council leader John Cotton acknowledged the challenging and complex process but expressed confidence that a new improved offer can address the ballpark issues discussed at ACAS. He said: 'A deal that would be good for the workforce, represent good value for money and would not repeat the mistakes of the past.' Cotton also thanked the people of Birmingham for their patience and emphasised his determination to deliver pay justice for women workers denied under previous leaderships.
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham saluted the fortitude of her members and thanked Mayor Parker and Lord Barber for their roles. Mayor Parker issued a statement saying: 'What matters now is delivery. After polling day, this agreement must be honoured in full, with a clear timetable and a formal resolution that gives confidence to workers and residents alike.'
The bin strike was initially sparked by the loss of the Waste Recycling and Collection Officer role, with striking workers claiming a pay cut of £8,000. The council has disputed this figure and insisted a fair offer was made last year.
