Plymouth Royal Mail workers walk out in anger

[TrueBlueTerrier]

Plymouth Royal Mail workers walk out in anger following closure threats and allegations of bullying

ROYAL Mail workers staged a two-hour strike over what they call a "crackers" plan to close the West Park delivery office.

The Communication Workers Union, which represents staff, said its members were protesting about issues including staff treatment and suggested closure plans.

The two-hour strike yesterday morning saw more than 100 turn out to highlight their increasing concerns. The action affected deliveries in the PL5 and PL6 postcode areas.

Chris Webb, of the CWU, said Royal Mail had brought in new working practices 18 months ago on the agreement they would review them after six weeks if workers found them problematic.

However, Mr Webb said workers became increasing frustrated they were still awaiting the review, claiming the change led to increased workloads and unpaid extra hours.

He said: "Staff found the new system unworkable, but 18 months later we're still awaiting the review which was agreed.

"Members have put up with increased pressure at work because they want to serve the public, but it's built up like a pressure cooker.

"The other issue is Royal Mail's plans to partially close the office and remove half the staff to Plymstock.

"They're still avoiding the core issues and it will increase the time it takes for staff to get to other areas. It's an absolute nonsense."

Local CWU representative Alastair Sinclair said: "In our recent staff survey 83 per cent of the office said they had been subjected to bullying and harassment.

"There is no way any of us at West Park could put up with this any longer."

Ralph Ferrett, Plymouth and East Cornwall branch secretary, added: "Royal Mail's proposal to move half the office out to Plymstock is frankly crackers.

"Anyone who knows the geography and traffic of Plymouth will realise this can't work. Postal workers and the public will suffer if this move goes ahead."

The Royal Mail said it was "disappointed" with the action and apologised to customers.

Spokeswoman Val Bodden said: "Royal Mail would like to apologise to customers in the PL5 and PL6 postcode areas affected by the unofficial strike taken yesterday morning by colleagues at West Park Delivery Office, Plymouth.

"Staff have now returned to work and we are attempting to deliver all items of mail to customers as soon as possible."

[UnhappyGremlin]

But had the company solved the problems ages ago when they should have, then they maybe would have avoided this.
But, as per usual, they stuck their head in the sand and hoped for the best.

[pants123]

wont be long......... ALL OUT NATIONAL STRIKE...