Bin contractor regrets meeting with union to discuss sacking concerns

Mar 27 2008 by Liam Murphy, Liverpool Daily Post

WIRRAL’S bin collection contractor has said it “regrets” a decision by a union to meet with it over sackings of employees found to be drunk or on drugs at work.

Biffa officials met with the TGWU section of the union Unite to discuss their concerns.

A union official has said there has been no move towards strike action so far but refused to rule out the possibility.

Biffa spokesman Mike Godfrey confirmed the dismissals were the reason for the action.

He said: “We regret the TGWU has felt it necessary to negotiate with us over this matter.

“After following the proper procedure, we were left with no option but to dismiss the employees on the grounds of prolonged and consistent absenteeism and for being at work under the influence of drugs and alcohol.

“We take very seriously the issue of drug and alcohol abuse and do not believe that anyone would condone the operation of heavy machinery or vehicles in public areas by people who are drunk or under the influence of drugs.”