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Council say strike action ‘extremely disappointing’ as Armagh workers prepare to picket

Industrial strike action will take place across the Armagh area for two weeks beginning on Wednesday.

The action, which will be taken by environmental services workers based at the council’s waste depot in the city, will severely impact bin collections in that part of the council.

The industrial action is a result of what Unite has branded a “hostile environment” that has been created for unions at the council.

In recent weeks a Unite shop steward, based at the depot has been dismissed, while five other Unite reps have faced investigations, or disciplinary hearings, or had their rights to represent workers restricted.

A spokesperson for ABC Council commented: “Council has been notified of industrial action by Unite trade union, following a ballot of their members, which will commence on Wednesday, July 17 for a period of two weeks (July 17-19,  July 22-26 and July 29-30).

“This outcome is an extremely disappointing course of action resulting in service disruption to household waste collection services across the Armagh area.

“We strongly refute allegations that any member of staff would be subject to any detriment as a result of or relating to Trade Union membership or activities. However, we cannot comment on any individual case due to confidentiality and will be making no comment on this matter.

“We remain fully committed to engaging with Unite to discuss and explore resolution, while following agreed policies and procedures. A further meeting has been requested.”

The strike action will affect the Armagh area only and does not impact on Household Recycling Centres.

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