The voice of the affected workers resonates strongly as gardeners at The Royal Parks in London have voted to initiate strike action in response to a proposed pay increase deemed inadequate by their union.
Employed by the subcontractor Idverde, these skilled gardeners and team leaders are set to strike over a suggested hourly wage rise of just 70p, which the GMB union has labeled as „an insult.“ The eight Royal Parks in London include notable locations such as Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens, and Regent’s Park.
A spokesperson for Royal Parks stated that pay negotiations fall under Idverde’s jurisdiction, expressing hope for a constructive resolution to the ongoing dispute. Idverde has yet to provide a comment on the situation.
According to the GMB union, the current pay for skilled gardeners and team leaders is already 55p above the London Living Wage, which is currently set at £14.80. The union has accused Idverde of failing to adequately recognize the skills and experience of its workers, suggesting that the contractor views the London Living Wage as a ceiling rather than a baseline.
Anna Lee, the regional organizer for GMB, emphasized, „Our members create and maintain these amazing spaces and to be offered 70p [extra per hour] is just an insult. They are skilled, experienced professionals and they know what their labour is worth.“
With a significant turnout of 75% among the voting members, an overwhelming 95% supported the decision to strike, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
Quellen: bbc.co.uk, tagesschau
Bildquelle: depositphotos
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