Coventry leaders back postal workers in strike threat

[TrueBlueTerrier]

http://www.coventrytelegraph.net/news/c ... -24088174/" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

LEADERS across Coventry and Warwickshire say they sympathise with postal workers, who could be balloting for industrial action this week.

The treatment of thousands of Royal Mail employees has sparked anger, with union leaders warning of possible action over disputes involving cuts to jobs, services and the failure to modernise the business.

Yesterday, the Coventry Telegraph revealed that postal workers in Leamington had been balloted for industrial action, with discussions due to take place in Coventry and across the rest of Warwickshire this week.

The possible industrial action follows a national dispute at Royal Mail which has prompted thousands of workers in London to take part in a three-day strike, starting tomorrow.

Coventry-based union leader Mick Kavanagh said: “This is not just about one separate issue or individual offices, it is a national dispute.

"Royal Mail’s treatment of its staff has been shambolic. I believe that people in Coventry should be told that their public services will be decimated.

“Jobs are being lost and services are being cut.”

Coun Kevin Foster, deputy leader of Coventry City Council, said: “I understand why postal workers in Coventry are angry, particularly given the way they have been treated over the closure of the Bishop Street sorting office.

“In the council’s dealings with Royal Mail it has always been very frustrating in the way they have refused to seriously look at options which would retain jobs in Coventry.”

Union leaders also claim that bosses at Royal Mail have gone back on the pay and modernisation agreement which was drawn up two years ago.

Alan Durham, director of policy, marketing and international trade at the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “Businesses certainly don’t want to see strike action and further disruption, particularly in the current climate.

“I hope, therefore, that the two parties can find a way to end this dispute without industrial action.

“While there are national issues involved here, I know there are also issues on a local basis that need to be addressed.

“And for the good of our members – who still require a fast, efficient postal service on a day-to-day basis – it is essential to see them sorted out amicably.”