Union warns that kerbside recycling in Bristol is at risk

SITA sub-contracts its recycling service in Bristol to Resourcesaver, which is owned by Avon Friends of the Earth. But Unison has said that the Resourcesaver-run black box scheme involving 135,000 homes is at risk.

The dispute over working hours is between the workforce of Resourcesaver and its management and is a separate issue to the pending strike action by SITA binmen over pay.

Resourcesaver said that due to the industrial relations situation it was unable to sign the new sub-contract with SITA, when SITA signed the 75 million seven-year contract to carry out waste management and recycling services for the council in May.

A temporary extension to Resourcesaver’s current contract, which expired on July 30, has been given to the end of August. But Unison said that the delay puts the kerbside recycling service at risk.

Jeopardy

Chris Howe, regional organiser of Unison, said: “The future of street recycling collection in Bristol is in serious jeopardy. The management of Resourcesaver has refused to renew its contract with SITA.”

A meeting is scheduled to take place this week between Resourcesaver and Unison to continue negotiations and try to avert strike action. But the workforce has balloted for industrial action and a strike is planned for September.

Mr Howe added: “The dispute risks the future of the black box street collection, risks the reputation of Friends of the Earth in Bristol and puts the livelihoods of our members on the line. This dispute could be resolved with little difficulty. Our members have only been asking for what most people already have, a standard eight hour working day. We believe this can be achieved at very little, if any, extra cost and a proper review of the rounds.”

Mr Howe said that they would prefer not to strike and to negotiate by settlement, but added: “The collection and recycling of waste is vital environmental issue. Equally, the right of working people to legitimately campaign for decent working hours must not be the subject of bullying and intimidation from the management, it seems that friends of the Earth is not the Friend of the ordinary working person.”

Charlie McCaulder, Resourcesaver’s general manager, said: “We are committed to recycling in Bristol and both SITA and Resourcesaver’s preferred option is for the current dispute to be resolved amicably between ourselves and Unison.”