Strike Action Looming At Motherwell Manufacturer Over ‘Derisory’ Pay Imposition

Strike Action Looming At Motherwell Manufacturer Over ‘Derisory’ Pay Imposition

GMB Scotland has today (Monday 15 April) served notice of industrial action on articulated truck manufacturer Volvo Construction Equipment Global, after the imposition of a ‘derisory’ 2 per cent pay increase.

Unions have been in dispute with management at the the Motherwell based firm, formerly known as Terex, following a failure to agreement a pay offer for the 2018/19 period, resulting in the implementation of the below inflation increase without consultation.

GMB members voted overwhelmingly for strike action against the imposition earlier this month by a majority of 80 per cent and for action short of strike by 90 per cent on an 80 per cent turnout.

A continuous overtime ban on all manufacturing operations is now scheduled to commence from 07.00 hours on Monday 29 April, with the possibility of strike action increasingly likely unless the employer brings forward an improved pay offer.

GMB Scotland Senior Organiser Louise Gilmour said: “Our members are refusing to accept the imposition of a real terms cut to their pay and conditions and unless the employer brings forward improved terms, we are heading for a strike.

“It is well within Volvo’s capacity to make sure work pays for its hardworking staff. The fact that they chose to bypass unions and impose this derisory increase on its staff is totally unacceptable and it’s no surprise our members voted so strongly for industrial action.

“Our message to Volvo management is clear: Make work pay for your staff, lift your pay cut imposition and let’s get back around the negotiating table to avoid the possibility of a strike.”

ENDS

Contact: GMB Senior Organiser Louise Gilmour on 07921 289739 or Peter Welsh, GMB Scotland Communications, on 07976 447077.