Sheffield injunction against strike

Bin workers in Sheffield have been striking against Veolia for ten months to get Unite, the union of their choice, recognised. GMB have played an atrocious role in the dispute, claiming Unite has launched a “campaign of harassment” against their members. Veolia bosses allow GMB flags to fly from the depot fences, giving cover for their claim that this is an “inter-union” dispute

Despite the efforts of GMB bureaucrats, a majority of workers, including GMB’s members, have signed a petition calling for Unite recognition.

On Friday 13 June, a High Court injunction was awarded to Veolia, stopping persons unknown from blocking vehicles entering or exiting Veolia depots. Veolia has spent at least £60,000 on strikebreaking efforts in the last eight weeks alone, but it went to the high court to prevent effective protest, rather than negotiate with their workers.

The injunction makes it clear that more political pressure is needed. Labour activists in Sheffield should not remain silent on the issue of a contractor for a Labour council refusing to recognise a trade union, especially an affiliated union. Pressure should be put on Labour councillors and MPs to stand up for these workers and come out publicly for the recognition of Unite.