After announcing four days of industrial action, Royal Mail has accused a labor union of evading responsibility.
In a salary dispute, Communication Workers Union members plan to go on strike for two days later this month and two days in September.
In a salary dispute, Communication Workers Union members plan to go on strike on August 26, August 31, September 8, and September 9.
Royal Mail stated that it has offered its employees a 5.5% pay increase, but the union stated that the increase reflects a 2% pay increase, an additional 1.5% in exchange for a change in terms and conditions, and a £500 bonus.
In addition, the union maintained that, with inflation over 9 percent, the offer is insufficient to help members keep up with the rising cost of living.
Royal Mail stated that it anticipates a loss for the current fiscal year if the strikes proceed.
It added, “This decision by the CWU is an abdication of responsibility for its members’ long-term employment security.”
In over three months of negotiations, CWU has refused to engage constructively on the necessary business adjustments.
“The negative commercial impact of any strike action will only make wage increases less affordable and could jeopardize employment.”
“The CWU is obligated to recognize the reality of the predicament Royal Mail faces as a business and to act swiftly to implement the necessary improvements.”
Craig Anderson, Scottish regional secretary of the CWU, told BBC’s Good Morning Scotland that workers are considering a strike because “we have no other choice.”
He added, “From our perspective, a fair offer would be for them to return to the table with us and consider the current cost-of-living crisis, the company’s profitability, and to begin negotiating a pay raise that reflects these factors.
Royal Mail stated that it is willing to continue negotiations, but that it “must address both change and compensation.”
It stated that it has implemented contingency plans to minimize disruption.
The CWU is one of several unions on strike this summer to improve worker compensation in light of the rising costs of living.
