Strike at missile depot might threaten munitions provides, says union
A
strike by employees at a Ministry of Defence missile depot might threaten munitions provides, a union has warned.
GMB Scotland members on the Defence Equipment & Support (DES) munitions depot in Beith, North Ayrshire, will stroll out on Monday in a row over retention bonuses.
The union stated employees are indignant there’s a “two-tier workforce” on the base, with managers and craft employees receiving bonuses whereas non-craft employees don’t.
It claimed this implies non-craft employees get lower than many grocery store employees.
Monday’s strike is the primary within the historical past of the DES – it can’t be allowed to hold on
DES is an arm’s size physique of the Ministry of Defence (MoD) which delivers tools and assist companies to the UK armed forces.
GMB Scotland organiser Chris Kennedy stated: “These workers are utterly vital to the UK armed forces – they deserve to be recognised as such.
“Instead, management have allowed a two-tier workforce to develop, fostering bitterness and anger among workers.
“Monday’s strike is the first in the history of the DES – it cannot be allowed to carry on.
“If the Defence Secretary does not step in to right this wrong, supplies of the crucial missiles manufactured at Beith will soon run low.”
The union stated that 93% of GMB members on the depot voted for strike motion, and greater than 50 employees will stroll out on Monday.
An MoD spokesman stated: “Pre-planned contingency measures are being implemented at Defence Munitions (DM) Beith to ensure the continued operation of the site.
“We remain open to dialogue with GMB to discuss the issues raised and work towards resolving them.”