Sacked postie David Mitchell 'so proud' after Cupar colleagues strike in support

[TrueBlueTerrier]

http://www.thecourier.co.uk/news/local/ ... t-1.916397" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

Cupar posties are staging a 24-hour walkout today in support of a sacked former colleague.

Around 40 posties downed tools at around 8.30am on Saturday to stage a one-day strike in support of David Mitchell, 57, who was accused of stealing mail by his former employers at Royal Mail.

Mr Mitchell subsequently won his case for unfair dismissal at an employment tribunal and a judge ordered his reinstatement, but the firm has steadfastly refused to give the 57-year-old his job back.

That prompted Saturday’s 24-hour walkout at the Cupar Delivery Office as his friends and former workmates vented their anger at the situation.

“I really wish it hadn't come to this and it shouldn't have,” Mr Mitchell told his former colleagues ahead of the strike. “I can’t think of the best way to thank you, but I am so proud of you all.”

Royal Mail has appealed against the judge’s decision and a ruling on that is expected within a matter of weeks.

Mr Mitchell’s partner Hilary Lumsden said: “It was very emotional – there were posties’ wives there in tears, I was in tears, Dave was in tears…

“It really was something else to see them walk out.”

The striking posties were also offered a free pint at The Station Bar across the road to help keep their spirits up.

Expressing his support for the local postal workers, North East Fife MP Stephen Gethins said: “I know that Dave has a great deal of support throughout the community and I hope this gives him heart at this very difficult time.

"I hope Royal Mail will take on board the high level of local opposition and reverse their stance."

[Bahia Feliz]

Wonder why they downed tools at 08.30,Maybe so they got paid 2 or 3 hours for today rather than lose a whole days pay maybe?

[P13]

Wonder why they downed tools at 08.30,Maybe so they got paid 2 or 3 hours for today rather than lose a whole days pay maybe?

Or maybe they wanted to walk out of the office in front of the manager and supporters as opposed to just standing at the gate

[Rowdy]

Wonder why they downed tools at 08.30,Maybe so they got paid 2 or 3 hours for today rather than lose a whole days pay maybe?

Or maybe they wanted to walk out of the office in front of the manager and supporters as opposed to just standing at the gate

Thank you, yes , you got it

[TrueBlueTerrier]

Yes I have to say Cupar are playing this very cannily. Getting public support actually on the picket line, which is why they went out at 0830, lots of mentions in local, regional and national press. Even luminaries such as local MPs are backing the cause. Perhaps the Union may like to join in

[aiden01]

Yes I have to say Cupar are playing this very cannily. Getting public support actually on the picket line, which is why they went out at 0830, lots of mentions in local, regional and national press. Even luminaries such as local MPs are backing the cause. Perhaps the Union may like to join in

Seriously tbt do you honestly think union will join in no chance their balls dropped long ago

[P13]

Yes I have to say Cupar are playing this very cannily. Getting public support actually on the picket line, which is why they went out at 0830, lots of mentions in local, regional and national press. Even luminaries such as local MPs are backing the cause. Perhaps the Union may like to join in

Seriously tbt do you honestly think union will join in no chance their balls dropped long ago

Our Area Rep was asked if we had any plans to support our colleague at Cupar,the look on his face as he waffled on about something summed it up. Frankly our union is a shadow of itself,too many colleagues and union officals looking after themselves.

[Justiceseeker]

Its the posties in the end who bring about the strike. Cupar and the Union worked together to get this strike off the ground. Proves it can be done.

Imagine you've been working beside your mate for 27 years, having a laugh while you sort the mail, the next day he doesn't come in. He's suspended. That's all you know. He can't speak to you. You don't know what happened. Management say nothing. 18 months later once the snail pace RM disciplinary process takes place then waiting for the legal procedures to go through you find out the real story - the Union invite your work mate to come in to a special meeting to tell you exactly what happened. You act because next time it could be you.

The public were there because they love Dave, he's a local celebrity but he deserves it because he is, bottom line, the best guy you could know.

The KY and FK delivery all offices showed their support of Dave, the Cupar posties and the Union. Unbelievable acts of selfless human kindness today.

Take heart and if you want to join the fight!

[daveyeff]

whats the next steps.

[Jambomatt1874]

What's the background to this story? Why has rm taken this stance after a tribunal and why was he originally in the position?

[TrueBlueTerrier]

What's the background to this story? Why has rm taken this stance after a tribunal and why was he originally in the position?

Most of the 2 pages in this search are about the case http://www.royalmailchat.co.uk/communit ... mit=Search" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

[Decky Boy]

Fair play to all those at Cupar who walked out. David Mitchell was found not guilty in a Court of Law yet his boss and Royal Mail will not reinstate him ???
I was tempted to await the outcome of Royal Mail's appeal before posting.... but quite frankly... "I smell shite". Much as I love our company (who pay my wages and put food in my mouth) I think some of those at the top need to have a "Reality Check" at the doctor's sometime really soon ! ! !
As I said..... I smell shite..... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8EE4alauiS4" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

[TrueBlueTerrier]

Fair play to all those at Cupar who walked out. David Mitchell was found not guilty in a Court of Law yet his boss and Royal Mail will not reinstate him ???
I was tempted to await the outcome of Royal Mail's appeal before posting.... but quite frankly... "I smell shite". Much as I love our company (who pay my wages and put food in my mouth) I think some of those at the top need to have a "Reality Check" at the doctor's sometime really soon ! ! !
As I said..... I smell shite..... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8EE4alauiS4" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;