Lack of meaningful consultation and management intransigence
forces strike action by Unite members
Over 400 staff at the National Education Union (NEU) are to
strike for two days this week due to a proposed restructure
taking place without meaningful consultation, with the
organisation having breached its own restructure policy.
Staff at the NEU, represented by the Unite union, are angry over
how plans for a significant restructure have been mishandled by
NEU management. Where issues have been identified by Unite reps,
management have proved unwilling to compromise or move towards
resolution of the issues.
Staff are demanding guarantees around workload, downgrading of
roles, fixed-term contracts and avoiding forced redeployment.
Workers want an end to last-minute announcements, rushed
decisions, and a total lack of respect for staff voices.
Unite regional officer Zimeon Jones said: “Our
members are fighting to protect their union against substantial
changes that have not been adequately consulted on. An
overwhelming majority of members voted for industrial action and
staff are saddened that talks with Unite reps to resolve this
dispute have resulted in only limited movement from the employer.
“Members at the NEU are overworked, overstressed and
underappreciated but remain committed to reaching a
resolution. We urge management to join reps for further
talks to resolve the dispute.”
Strike action will take place on the 15 and 16
July. Picket lines will be in place outside all NEU
offices.
Notes to editors
It is usual practice for staff at a trade union to be represented
by another trade union for workplace issues.
