29/09/2005

Morrisons strike called off

A planned three-day strike by workers at Morrisons has been called off, in order for further talks between the supermarket and unions to take place.

Around 4,000 workers were due to walk out on Friday in response to the news that the firm might be closing three depots.

Last week, Morrisons confirmed that three depots in Bristol, Ayslesford in Kent and Warrington, might “no longer be required” by the company. Around 2,500 jobs would be lost, if the depots were to close.

Members of both the GMB and the Transport and General Workers Union subsequently voted in favour of strike actions in ballots.

However, Jude Brimble, GMB National Officer, said: “The strike threat forced Morrisons to put their plans on the table and to concede national bargaining. We are now in the midst of serious talks about what looks like a very large redundancy.

“We are exploring all avenues to mitigate the job losses including transfers, selling depots as going concerns and an enhanced redundancy package.”

The strike was originally been planned to begin on September 23, but was postponed for a week.

Following fresh talks on Wednesday, it was decided to call off the strikes, which had now been due to begin on September 30. Further talks are planned for October 11.

(KMcA)




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