Unite victory in EDF meter workers' union recognition fight

EDF strike, 4.9.15 (Click to enlarge)

The successful battle for the trade union recognition of EDF Energy workers transferred to Morrison Data Services has been hailed as a key victory by general union Unite.

Around 40 meter readers had unanimously voted for strike action if Morrison's, based in Newcastle, had not recognised the EDF workers after they had been transferred.

However, following talks between Unite and the management at the conciliation service Acas, a recognition agreement was hammered out.

Unite regional officer Onay Kasab said: "This is a significant victory which demonstrates that union recognition rights can't be quietly forgotten and silently pushed into the shadows when workers are transferred between organisations.

"The issue was union recognition. Following the ballot for strike action the employers agreed to talks.

"The result is a recognition agreement with Unite. Members have now agreed with the proposal which the union recommended.

"It is an important win - in many cases where similar transfers happen, the recognition agreement does not transfer.

"This was a fight worth fighting and Unite won't be found wanting in this respect in the future."

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