Water Service workers go on strike in NI

by pat c Wed Feb 09, 2005 18:03

Water workers take strike action

Members of the four unions voted for industrial action
Water Service workers in Northern Ireland are to stage a one day strike on Wednesday over proposals to reform the service.
Members of the four unions voted for industrial action, saying attempts to engage the government in negotiations had failed.

Plans for a government company to take over from the existing Water Service could see up to 700 jobs lost.

The umbrella group for the unions said the strike would not affect consumers.

'Workers cast aside'

More industrial action will follow, with a work to rule and withdrawal of goodwill, they said.

Spokesperson Bumper Graham said over the next few days the unions will be discussing the escalation of their action.

"The minister needs to realise that there is no support whatsoever for his water reform proposals and that water workers deserve to be treated fairly and not cast aside by ministerial dictates," he said.

Last week Minister John Spellar said he regretted the decision but said he respected their rights to pursue lawful strike action.

"I would urge the trade unions not to use the issue of water charging to prevent the necessary improvements to the workings of the Water Service," he said.

"Water Service Management will be taking all possible steps to maintain the delivery of services to the public."

Reforms announced last August would see the Water Service become a Government Owned Company, or GoCo, in 2006 and be almost completely self funding by 2008.

Anyone wishing to report problems with water and sewerage services can contact Waterline on 08457 440088.