While the media went to town on petrol shortages, the use of the armed forces to drive tankers, distortion of the facts of the case, the real reasons why Unite members voted to take industrial action got scant coverage. Contarary to media generated stories – this dispute is not about pay.
For over a year Unite has been trying to convince the industry to bring some stability back into the supply of this vital national commodity. Yet, behind the scenes, the major employers have been slashing drivers’ terms and conditions and cutting corners on training and safety in a bid to win contracts.
Fears over safety and growing instability in the supply of fuel, high safety and training standards are maintained. These are the real issues. It is about bringing fairness and stability back to an industry that is controlled by faceless global giants.
Unite is calling for industry minimum standards and industry wide bargaining on pensions, terms and conditions, training and health and safety.
There’s no need to say to much more – the video says it all!
Feel free to pass on this blog and use on your own sites. if you need for information click here for a Q&A on the facts behind the dispute.
