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Unite Union has confirmed that managers at Royal Mail are now planning to go on strike this month. The union has confirmed dates when staff will stage walkouts across the country in July.
The action has been called in response to plans for pay cuts, as well as the loss of 700 jobs, Unite has claimed. The strikes will see managers walk out from July 15 to 19, then again from July 20 to July 22.
Royal Mail has condemned the planned action, arguing there are “no grounds” for it and stating it is committed to protecting managers’ pay. At present, the exact number of post offices affected is not clear, but it has been reported up 2,400 managers could participate in the strike.
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Unite has warned customers to expect disruption to services such as next-day deliveries and tracked items. Royal Mail says it has “contingency plans” in place.
The action will also see managers ceasing to work unpaid overtime. Unite has claimed those additional hours are a crucial part of keeping the service running properly.
(Image: Getty Images / Lvenks)
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “This business is awash with cash, but it is putting profits and dividends for the few at the top ahead of its duties as a public service. There is not a single aspect of these cuts which is about improving customer service.
“They are being driven entirely by a culture of greed and profiteering which has seized a 500-year-old essential service, driving it close to ruin. Our members are determined to force the business to take a different path, and they have the full backing of Unite.”
A Royal Mail spokesperson said: “We are disappointed that Unite has notified us of planned industrial action. There are no grounds for industrial action. The extended consultation on our recent restructure concluded earlier this year, and the restructuring is complete.
“We committed to protecting pay for all managers who stay with Royal Mail, and the vast majority have seen an increase in their earnings. We allowed managers to request voluntary redundancy with a package of up to two years’ salary, which was over-subscribed. We also made several concessions during the process, which Unite declined.
“We have contingency plans in place to minimise disruption for customers in the event of industrial action and we will work to keep people, businesses and the country connected.”
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