Almost 100 ‘angry’ refuse collectors could walk out, affecting 88,000 homes, says GMB Union.

The ballot, which closes on 4th March, covers almost 100 workers at recycling centres and refuse collection services run by North Somerset Environment Company.

If it goes ahead the strike could affect 88,000 homes.

Workers are angry after North Somerset Council, who set up the company last year, have only provided funding for a meagre 1.75 per cent pay award – amounting to a massive real-terms pay cut.

Following negotiations with GMB, the board of the company requested North Somerset Council boost funding for an improved offer – but the Council continues to drag its heels.

Tim Northover, GMB Regional Organiser, said: “Hard-pressed staff are extremely angry about the rubbish pay on offer, particularly in light of the cost-of-living crisis we’re all facing.

“At the height of the pandemic our members were being commended – but now it looks like our members have no option but to ballot for industrial action before the council recognise the service they provide.

“North Somerset Council needs to wake up and support a pay rise – it’s time to negotiate with us and our reps to avoid any industrial action before it has even begun.”A North Somerset Council spokesperson said: “We are aware of the GMB ballot over industrial action. If union members do decide to strike, this will inevitably have an impact on the recycling and waste services we provide.“The pay being disputed is for the 2021/22 financial year and the increased pay offer is in line with the rest of the public sector, so we believe that North Somerset Environment Company has acted fairly.“In the event of industrial action, we have plans in place to minimise disruption as much as we can. We would also update our website with information about affected services.”