Strike follows overwhelming rejection of inadequate pay offer by workforce at company’s supply store
 
Members of Unite employed by Haldane-Fisher at its Newry-based central supply store are to commence all-out strike action from Wednesday June 10. The strike results from an escalating pay dispute and will see up to 40 workers walk out severely impacting the operations of the region’s leading building and timber merchant.
 
The strike occurs after union members voted to reject a below inflation two per cent pay increase which has been imposed by management despite Unite’s recognised status at the company.
 
Sharon Graham, general secretary of Unite said, “Haldane-Fisher workers are low paid who have watched their pay fail to keep pace with inflation or increases to the bare legal minimum.

“They are determined to end a practice of having paltry pay increases imposed by management. They can count on the full support of Unite in their struggle for decent pay and respect.”
 
Unite regional officer Sean Smyth said: “Management’s approach to our union and our membership has been highly disrespectful. This has really angered our members and this ballot for strike action has been decisive.

“Management can still avert the severe disruption to the company’s operations across Northern Ireland. They must return to the table with a pay offer addressing our members’ legitimate pay expectations.”
 
ENDS…

For further information or to arrange an interview contact Donal O'Cofaigh, Unite campaigns, communications & press (NI), tel. 07810 157926.