The GMB union staged a protest at Sheffield Town Hall against Liberal Democrat proposals to cut funding for Sheffield Council employees who work as trade union convenors. The union claims that convenors save money for the local authority by representing the workforce on industrial matters. Sheffield Live! reporter Azz Mohammed spoke to GMB organiser Lee Parkinson.
A loophole in the law has allowed over seven hundred Sheffield taxi drivers to operate with licences issued by councils hundreds of miles away. Over four hundred of the licences were issued in Rossendale, Lancashire. The news has sparked concerns over safety and welfare. Sheffield Live! reporter Simon Thake spoke with taxi driver and GMB Sheffield union representative, Ibrar Hussain.
The GMB held a picket today at the Beighton Road recycling site. They are asking for better facilities, fairer pay and against alleged bullying. Veolia and Sheffield City Council said they are continuing to support the Green Company and are encouraging discussions so that issues can be resolved quickly.
The GMB has voted to go on strike for better working conditions here in the City. Peter Davies, Organiser for the Sheffield City Council branch of the GMB said they want better welfare conditions for the workers.
Sheffield Live! also approached Sheffield City Council and the Green Company but no one was available for an interview. However, they sent us a written statement which said “We are aware that GMB members have decided to take industrial action at The Green Company. Discussions are continuing with the union and its representatives about any concerns expressed by staff working for The Green Company.
The Green Company and GMB representatives will work together to resolve any issues that need addressing. We want to sort any issues out speedily. If strike action does occur we will do everything we can to minimise disruption and keep as many sites open as possible.”
We spoke to Peter Davis who explained why they have decided to take strike action.
Baillor Jalloh reports for Sheffield Live!