Displaying items by tag: bin strike

A resolution to Birmingham’s ongoing bin strike may be near, as the conciliation service Acas is set to join negotiations for the first time. The dispute, led by over 350 members of the Unite union, began on 11 March over pay concerns and threats of job and salary cuts, resulting in thousands of tonnes of uncollected rubbish and public health warnings across the city. Unite’s general secretary Sharon Graham stated that while a deal is 'in touching distance’, the city council has been inconsistent in its public versus private positions. The union has tabled workable proposals, but insists the council must now act decisively. Earlier this month, workers overwhelmingly rejected a revised offer, saying it failed to prevent potential pay cuts for 200 drivers. Meanwhile, the Government deployed military planners and additional support to clear an estimated 26,000 tonnes of waste. Communities minister Jim McMahon confirmed levels are now 'approaching normal’. Talks continue, with both sides under pressure to resolve the dispute swiftly to restore services and public confidence in the city’s leadership.

Tensions are rising in Birmingham as an all-out bin strike continues, leaving rubbish uncollected and sparking health concerns, including reports of large rats and one resident allegedly being bitten. With the city council being overseen by commissioners after declaring bankruptcy, the Government has said it cannot legally intervene, insisting it remains a local matter. MPs from across the political spectrum have criticised the inaction, branding it a 'national embarrassment’. The Unite union, representing a small group of holdouts, is accused of blocking depots and preventing contingency plans. Communities minister Jim McMahon and Labour MP Preet Gill both called for a resolution, stressing the urgent need for compromise. Meanwhile, residents across the region remain frustrated by the visible impact and potential health risks of uncollected waste.