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Tram strike threat as staff back steward

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Published Date: 31 July 2010
By Ben Spencer
News Reporter
TRAM workers in Sheffield have voted to take industrial action after a row between managers and a trade union official.
Around two thirds of staff at Supertram were balloted by trade union Unite after owners Stagecoach refused to negotiate with a union officer.

Out of around 175 union members 76 voted in favour of industrial action and 42 against.

Stagecoach bosses have questioned the legitimacy of the ballot, pointing out that less than 45 per cent of members voted for strike action.

Unite officials said they would try and reach a compromise with the company before union members decide on their course of action.

Unite regional officer Phil Bown told The Star: "A meeting of branch members has been arranged for Thursday night next week. I hope to talk to the company face to face before that to see if we can reach a solution."

A spokeswoman for Supertram said: "Less than 45 per cent of union members balloted have voted in favour of strike action.

"We would urge the union to put the people of Sheffield first and not cause unnecessary disruption and inconvenience for the many customers who rely on their tram services.

"The decision not to deal with one of Unite's officials was not taken lightly. It followed a number of incidents where the individual broke an agreement on the standards expected of a trade union representative and undermined the democratic voting process.

"Throughout this matter, we have followed the correct process and we have consulted with Unite at every stage.

"It goes without saying that we continue to recognise Unite as a trade union.

"We are also available to meet the union at any time if they wish to discuss this or any other issues."

Council leader Paul Scriven said: "The Supertram forms a vital part of many local residents' daily commute, so for their sake I hope this dispute is resolved as quickly as possible.

"If trams don't run it will have a knock-on effect on the rest of the transport system too.

"I have asked council officers to be aware of this and do what they can to ensure things run as smoothly as possible."

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Page 1 of 1

  • Last Updated: 31 July 2010 5:13 AM
  • Source: Sheffield Star1
  • Location: Sheffield
 
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1

Mosbroman,

sheffield 31/07/2010 10:26:20
Let's hope a bit of common sense prevails.
2

indigenousvoxpop,

Sheffield 31/07/2010 11:11:48
Stagecoach recognise the union but not the union's representative. Eh? They have no right to question who represents the other side. They should back down immediately and stop forcing the issue. Their real intention is obvious. They want to de-recognise the union. The 45% comment is an obvious giveaway. Most majority governments are elected on less than 45% of votes cast. So what? That's democracy.
3

Tawny,

31/07/2010 11:30:40
Is does seem to be the democracy that applies in Britain but I think the real term is apathy.

I am sorry to say that until 100% turnout is enforced then this will tend to be the case.
4

BillyJoeBob,

31/07/2010 13:32:06
My Brother works for the Trams and is in the Union but he and a few others (who didn't get on with the steward in question), never got their voting forms??? Coincidence? I'm all for democracy but I think there are two sides to this story.
5

Expensive Jobless Sheffield,

31/07/2010 19:25:14
This proves that Stagecoach Supertram doesn't care about public!

They are just like First, Council & EMT!

I will not catch the Supertram again!
6

Sheffield-born 46,

01/08/2010 10:25:54
Expensive Jobless Sheffield: Hope you enjoy your walking, it will do you good.
7

Expensive Jobless Sheffield,

01/08/2010 12:15:04
Sheffield-born 46

Yes, it would do me very good as I only live 1 mile from the City Centre and have other modes of Transport!
8

Barnmeg1,

01/08/2010 13:05:29
r supertram striking next sat when wednesday r at home, if not am not bothered
9

taximansam,

01/08/2010 23:09:21
Power to the ordinary people - stuff the big companies!
10

Handsworth,

02/08/2010 08:30:57
I do not know the exact rights and wrongs of this altercation, but it seems strange that somewhere at the corner is the Union or one of their paid up Members. It seems here that there is a lot of disagreement about the reason for the strike.
On the other hand I suppose the Union Officials have to flex their muscles and act the part of Big Brother.
Trying talking instead of threatening, that is the only way to get the public behind you.
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