Workers accept new offer. All eyes back on employer in Sheffield.

Unite members working at a toxic waste facility in Ellesmere Port in Cheshire are celebrating a new pay deal today (26 June) after accepting an improved offer from their employer, Veolia.

Workers were due to take strike action from tomorrow (June 27) over poor pay but have now accepted a two-year deal that will see them get a four per cent pay increase in year one (backdated to 1 January) and then a further increase in year two which will be the midpoint between CPI and RPI rates of inflation. Additionally, overtime will now be paid at double time and workers will see a trial period for proposed improvements to work-life balance shift times. On pensions, workers will now receive a seven per cent employer contribution.

Industrial action that had been planned for the next three days has now been cancelled.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “This proves there is power in a union. Our members have won a victory that will see a marked improvement in pay and have achieved a much-deserved pension scheme that means they will be more financially secure in retirement.

“This goes to show that Veolia’s management in one part of the country has seen sense and given our members what they deserve. It is now for management in Sheffield to do the same and recognise Unite.”

Unite has a long-running dispute with Veolia at a refuse collection depot in Sheffield where the union is fighting for recognition. Staff there have been on strike since the autumn and have just voted once again to continue their industrial action.

Unite regional officer Ross Quinn added: “Our members stood strong and were prepared to fight for their right to decent pay and pensions. Unite supported their campaign from the start and I’m delighted that they have secured a fair deal. 

“There can be no doubt that joining Unite will put money in your pocket in the workplace.”