Nottingham tram workers could take strike action on every Saturday up until Christmas over the treatment of two terminally ill colleagues. The GMB Union is balloting hundreds of members on industrial action after it was announced the pair could be given pay cuts.
The union said workers are "balloting in outrage after the company announced it would slash the pay of Robert Currie, an RAF veteran, and popular local tram worker David Brown as they battle life-threatening conditions". In a statement, it added that "despite long and dedicated service to Nottingham Trams, both are now confronting the double threat of serious illness in their personal lives and massive loss of earnings"
Nottingham Express Transit (NET) said it provided levels of support exceeding those set out in the TUC's Dying to Work Charter.
Colin Whyatt, GMB Organiser, said it was a shocking lack of respect shown by Keolis, the men's employer which is a major part of the consortium that runs NET. Many years ago, GMB members were successful in delivering the ‘Dying to Work’ charter for Nottingham’s tram workers, which gives them protection in the face of terminal illness at work," he said.
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“For the company to turn around and threaten to pull out of this agreement, at a time of such uncertainty and hardship, speaks volumes about the companies approach to supporting vulnerable workers. Despite written agreements and public displays of support from the employer for the ‘Dying To Work’ charter, the current senior management team seem unwilling to act on the basic principle of support for workers facing terminal illness.
“GMB members are proud to stand shoulder to shoulder with colleagues facing these hardships and will take the decision on the next steps in their campaign in the coming weeks.”
An NET spokesperson said: "Although we are unable to comment on any individual cases, we have provided levels of support for employees that far exceed those set out in the TUC’s Dying to Work Charter.
"Clearly, we are disappointed that the GMB Union has threatened to take unnecessary industrial action, but we will continue to work towards a resolution to what is a very sensitive issue and remain committed to the Charter.”
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