Just days after resolving an industrial dispute with its drivers based in Liverpool, DHL are now facing the prospect of yet more strike action in the UK this Easter.
Once again it is drivers from the Unite Union that have voted to go on strike; on this occasion it is those working at the Dartford regional distribution centre, which serves Sainsbury’s.
According to a statement by Unite, the Dartford strike ballot was called after a Unite steward, who was providing support to a member of staff during an investigation hearing, was suspended for challenging a DHL managers’ version of events.
Unite say the reason given for the suspension by the manager was that the Unite steward was being aggressive. The trade union claim the accusation was flatly contradicted by a neutral member of staff who was present at the meeting as a third party.
More than 350 DHL staff are now poised to stage walkouts throughout March, April and May.
In order for the strike to be called off, Unite are demanding that the “completely unjustified suspension’” is revoked and industrial relations at the site improved.
Unite regional officer Phil Silkstone has claimed DHL “have no one to blame but themselves” for the situation:
“DHL’s leadership have no one to blame but themselves for the deterioration in staff relations at the Dartford site. It is clear to our members that DHL’s completely unjustified suspension of a Unite steward is a clear attempt at union busting. They are well aware that if the suspension is allowed to stand, it will only encourage attempts to try and weaken collective bargaining, pay and terms and conditions. Strikes and the resultant disruption to Sainsbury’s Easter supply chain will go ahead unless DHL revokes the suspension and builds bridges with staff instead of knocking them down. DHL can avoid strike action if they reverse the suspension of our member and enter into peace talks. Unite is more than happy to facilitate this before strikes are officially announced.”
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