Commuters relying on the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) are facing significant disruption as cleaners are set to stage a four-day strike in a bitter dispute over sick pay.
Strike Dates and Cause
The Rail, Maritime and Transport union (RMT) has confirmed that its members will walk out on Thursday, November 27, and Friday, November 28, followed by a second wave of strikes on Monday, December 1, and Tuesday, December 2. The industrial action comes after a six-month-long dispute with cleaning contractor Bidvest Noonan, which has failed to offer its staff company sick pay.
The union highlights a stark disparity, pointing out that a fellow contractor on the DLR, Amulet, does provide company sick pay to its employees. Both companies are subcontracted by KAD, a firm hired by Transport for London (TfL) to manage operations.
Breakdown in Negotiations
RMT officials state they have "tried repeatedly" to engage with Bidvest Noonan over the issue for half a year. However, they claim their efforts have been met with a refusal to negotiate directly, with the contractor instead stating it is discussing the matter with TfL.
RMT General Secretary Eddie Dempsey did not mince his words, stating: "Bidvest Noonan on the DLR have behaved appallingly and not made any offer on company sick pay that is remotely acceptable. Their refusal to engage properly with the union shows the contempt local company representatives have for their staff who do a vital job on DLR."
Implications and Union Resolve
The strike action is expected to affect DLR services throughout the four-day period, potentially impacting thousands of passengers across London. The union has warned that this could be just the beginning if their demands are not met.
Mr. Dempsey added a clear warning: "Our members will not put up with this appalling treatment and are prepared to take sustained strike action if necessary." This indicates that further disruption could be on the horizon for DLR users should the deadlock in negotiations continue.
