‘Struggling’ workers to strike

STAFF across Blaenau Gwent have voted to strike following claims that employees had been “forced” to use food banks.

Employees at Aneurin Leisure Trust leisure centres, parks and libraries have voted “overwhelmingly” in favour of strike action following a dispute over pay.

The trust currently runs facilities and leisure services in 19 venues across the borough after being transferred from Blaenau Gwent council in 2014.

This includes Ebbw Vale Sport Centre and Parc Bryn Bach.

In January negotiations began between Unison, Unite, GMB and Aneurin Leisure Trust over a cost-ofliving pay rise after claims staff have been struggling to “make ends meet”.

But the joint trade unions have since rejected a proposed pay offer of 1% for the period between October 2018 and April 2019, and are now calling on the trust to return to negotiations.

In a ballot, 88% of staff voted in favour of strike action out of 68 votes cast.

The trust employs 272 staff, with 112 of these members of the joint trade union. The earliest possible date for an action is November 7.

Rosie Lewis, Unison Cymru Wales regional organiser, said: “Blaenau Gwent is one of the UK’s poorest regions and the directors of Aneurin Leisure Trust – all of whom live outside the area – have suppressed employee wages. Some staff have been forced to use foodbanks.

“The overwhelming vote in favour of strike action is a clear message to Aneurin Leisure Trust that their employees have had enough and something needs to change.

“Staff are struggling to make ends meet, they haven’t had a pay rise since April 2016. Since then inflation has increased by 7%. All the workers are asking is to be paid a fair wage.”

On Thursday, a statement from Aneurin Leisure Trust’s managing director, Anthony Hughes, said: “Aneurin Leisure are not in a position to make a formal statement today; however, the trust will aim to meet Joint Trade Unions within the next 24 hours to discuss a mutual way forward.”