Strike action threatened over sacking of union leader
KIRKLEES Unison members could go on strike in support of their branch secretary Paul Holmes after he was sacked by Kirklees Council for the alleged bullying and intimidation of mainly female colleagues.
The motion will be discussed today by its branch committee and says that if his sacking is upheld - which is almost certain - then a consultative ballot should be held “arguing for a campaign of strike action to get Paul reinstated.”
The saga regarding Mr Holmes has been rumbling on for several years now, with one female colleague telling YorkshireLive that working with him was like being stuck in a 1970s typing pool. Staff were not allowed to use email or mobile phones. Mr Holmes has vigorously denied the allegations.
The motion reads: “This meeting notes the victimisation of Kirklees UNISON Branch Secretary, Paul Holmes and the anti-union actions of Kirklees Council. Paul Holmes was sacked by Kirklees Council for allegations made against him in his role as Branch Secretary.
“UNISON has lodged an appeal against this decision, lodged an Employment Tribunal and supported Paul in a case for interim relief. The case for interim relief is significant as it was supported by UNISON on the advice of the solicitors employed by the union.
“This case can only be taken if there is a legal case to prove trade union victimisation.
“Paul’s appeal to Kirklees Council is scheduled for May 20 and if the sacking is upheld this meeting resolves to commence a consultative ballot of Kirklees UNISON members arguing for a campaign of strike action to get
Paul reinstated.”
A Kirklees Council spokeswoman said: “Kirklees Council takes all employee disciplinary matters very seriously. We follow the same thorough investigation process for all members of staff when allegations are made.
“All members of staff have a right to confidentiality and it is therefore not appropriate for us to discuss any details around this specific investigation or any other.”
Representatives of Mr Holmes, a veteran union leader, have been approached for comment by YorkshireLive.