Postie is ‘overwhelmed’ by support received

STRIKE: 2,500 postal workers to be balloted on action in support of Fife man

Thousands of posties may strike in anger at the treatment of a sacked colleague in action which could hit mail for the Scottish Parliament elections.

Postal workers across south-east Scotland are to vote on industrial action in the wake of what was described as one of the biggest injustices ever involving Royal Mail and a union member.

The delivery firm has refused to reinstate Fife postman David Mitchell, who won his unfair dismissal case after being accused of stealing mail.

Around 2,500 workers in the Fife, Edinburgh, Galashiels and Falkirk will be balloted by the Communication Workers Union on industrial action.

Unless a resolution is reached, a series of one-day strikes could run into the period when postal ballot papers are being issued for the election on May 5.

CWU branch secretary Kenny Logan said there was fury and fear among members that an employer could “ignore” the decision of an employment tribunal chairman.

He said: “This is not just about Royal Mail, it’s about the trade union movement.

“If we have a blue chip company taking this draconian attitude where it has lost an employment tribunal but is not willing to adhere to the decision of the tribunal there is a serious issue.

“Throughout this case Royal Mail has never produced a single shred of evidence to prove that David is guilty.

“We would like him to be reinstated long before then, but there is the possibility this could affect the delivery of election material.”

The ballot was unanimously agreed at the CWU’s annual general meeting and if members vote for action, could see the first of a series of one-day strikes in late March or early April.

Mr Mitchell, of Chance Inn, near Cupar, said he was overwhelmed by the support shown to him.

Although he has been awarded a financial settlement from Royal Mail, he continues to fight for his job back at Cupar delivery office where former colleagues have already staged strikes.

He said: “This isn’t just about me, this is about every postie in the UK. It’s important to see the bigger picture. It could be any one of them next.”

A Royal Mail spokeswoman said: “Royal Mail has not received any formal notification of a ballot for strike action from the CWU.

“We are still hopeful of finding a resolution with our union and our people on this local issue, to ensure that customers do not face any disruption.”

Royal Mail has never produced a single shred of evidence to prove that David is guilty. KENNY LOGAN CWU BRANCH SECRETARY