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A number of strikes are taking place across the city today as union members from Royal Mail, BT and Openreach are set to walk out over separate clashes over pay and conditions.
The Communication Workers Union (CWU), which represents Royal Mail Group, BT and Openreach employees, has been tangled up in long-running disputes with the companies.
READ MORE: GMB members of Wincanton serving BAE Systems in Glasgow strike in dispute over pay
The Glasgow Times previously reported that industrial action from other union groups has been sweeping across industries – from railway workers to warship manufacturing subcontractors.
Further strikes have been balloted for teachers and NHS staff as well.
Striking posties accused Royal Mail CEO Simon Thompson of a “vanishing act” and “avoiding peace talks”, criticizing him for failing to attend scheduled discussions on Monday.
As previously reported, around 6000 jobs at Royal Mail are set to be axed as bosses blame strike action for massive financial losses at the delivery giant.
Postal workers are striking over pay and the proposed company shift towards “a standard casualised gig economy employer” that would ‘crush’ the living standards of workers.
READ MORE: Royal Mail workers to walkout in fresh strike over pay and conditions
Talks between the union and company bosses deteriorated in recent weeks as Royal Mail served a legal notice to the CWU, legally withdrawing from existing agreements with the union.
Dave Ward, boss of the CWU, said: “Instead of sitting down and sorting out his problems like an adult, Simon Thompson chose to be a vanishing act instead.
“When someone like him earns £62,750 a month and can give himself six-figure bonuses, it is a disgrace that he sees it fit to disrespect our members in such a way.
“Simon can’t dodge the reality that a mood of rebellion is sweeping postal workers who won’t accept Thompson’s hostile and bizarre behaviour.
“Postal workers go above and beyond every day, and they deserve to be treated with dignity and respect.
“We won’t be backing down until we get just that.”
A Royal Mail spokesperson said: “On Friday, October 14, we announced losses of £219 million in the first half of the year.
“This once again demonstrates the urgent need for Royal Mail to change.
“Further strike action would materially increase our losses for the full year and may necessitate further operational restructuring and job losses.
“Four weeks have passed since we invited the CWU to enter talks with Acas to resolve the change and pay dispute.
“We once again urge the CWU to join us in Acas talks. This is the only way to reach a resolution and secure Royal Mail’s future and jobs for our people.
“We apologise to our customers for the inconvenience the CWU’s continued strike action will cause.
“We are doing all we can to minimise delays and keep people, businesses and the country connected.”
Royal Mail disputes the comments made by Dave Ward about Simon Thompson’s salary.
