Postal workers to walk out on Tuesday

[Geezer]

http://www.rochdaleobserver.co.uk/news/ ... on_tuesday


August 21, 2009

MORE than 180 postal workers at the main Rochdale sorting office are taking part in a 24-hour walkout on Tuesday (25 Aug) in protest at Royal Mail cuts.

A series of country-wide walkouts have been triggered by a row over modernisation plans.

The move is expected to bring the Ainsworth Street depot to a standstill, halting almost all deliveries for the day.

The Communication workers Union (CWU) is accusing the Royal Mail of failing to adequately negotiate about changes to the service.

Earlier this week the Royal Mail agreed to talks, following a series of one-day strikes across the country.

As the situation stands at the moment, ballots for national strike action will be sent out to union members on Wednesday 9 September.

A spokesman for the Rochdale depot said: "We’re not opposed to modernisation, but it needs to be negotiated. At the moment we feel like we are being dictated to."

Dave Ward, Communication Workers Union deputy general secretary, said: "Postal workers are more productive than ever handling more mail with a diminishing workforce. Stress is now reaching breaking point while morale is at an all-time low."

Ted Stead, branch secretary Oldham and Rochdale CWU said: "The offer of talks is welcomed, however the company has to have real dialogue, and agree to negotiated and signed national agreements to protect the terms and conditions of our members.

"Our members are solidly backing their union, they know it is make or break time, unless common sense prevails and meaningful talks take place the next period of action will be in the shape of a national strike, the last thing any of us want."