Tuesday, 1.41pm - A STALEMATE has been reached at Finveden Powertrain, West Street, Alford, after negotiations stalled on Monday over a row about lower paid workers.
Last Friday around 160 staff went on strike because management refused to withdraw plans to introduce lower paid workers into the factory, which existing workers fear will jeopardise pay grades.
On Monday the regional officer for Unite the Union (formerly AMICUS) was refused entry to the factory where he had planned to talk to staff about the situation.
Senior workplace rep for the union Mick Wood told the Standard on Monday: "It's come to a halt at the moment. (Management] has refused the union regional officer the right to consult with our members today and Friday.
"It's inflamed it a bit. Workers are not very happy because they feel we should have representation."
Last week the managing director of the company, which makes automobile parts, Steven Edwards explained the company was introducing lower paid staff in line with an agreement made with AMICUS two years ago.
He said the company needed to do it to meet increased orders and he does not understand why the union will not honour the agreement now.
But Mr Edwards refused to comment on Monday.
A meeting was planned for Tuesday afternoon after the Standard went to press to decide what the course of action will be and whether another strike will take place on Friday.
Do you think it is unfair to introduce lower paid workers? Do you work at Finveden and are worried about the situation? Email us CLICK HERE
The full article contains 271 words and appears in Skegness Standard newspaper.
