The GMB trade union has announced that following the official strike ballot, three one-day strikes of porters, cleaners and housekeepers have been called at Great Western Hospital. The dispute is over allegations of discrimination against the workers most of whom are from Goa, and of bullying by a supervisor employed by Carillion, the hospital’s services contractor.
The strikes will be held on February 14, 21 and 23. Of the GMB’s 150 union members 84 per cent took part in the ballot and 97 per cent of those voted in favour of strike action.
The GMB says that Carillion have agreed to meet union representatives on February 13 to discuss the progress of the collective grievance process, but they will not negotiate with the union which they do not recognise.
In a statement when the ballot results were announced, Carillion said: “The efficient running of the hospital and duty of care to patients is of utmost importance and we are disappointed with the decision to strike. However, we have robust contingency plans in place and are working closely with the Trust to ensure that patient care is not compromised should strike action take place.”
It is understood that the hospital management do not expect the strike to disrupt its daily operations and clinics.
