‘Growing anger’

Unite is currently balloting its members for industrial action at Johnson Matthey in Clitheroe, Lancashire, in a long-running dispute over a ‘completely unacceptable’ pay offer. The ballot at the leading speciality chemicals company will close on Friday, November 23 2018.
More than 150 workers, such as manual workers, chemical process workers, maintenance engineers and office workers, are taking part in the industrial action ballot over the company’s final pay offer for a one year deal of 2.75 per cent.

“Our members are growing angry over their five month long pay dispute,” said Unite regional officer Pat Coyne.

“Industrial relations have been strained during the last couple of years and our members have made costly sacrifices,” he added. “Unite members will now vote on industrial action to send a resounding message to the management team that this pay offer is unacceptable.

“We are calling on Johnson Matthey to reward its most valuable asset, its employees with a decent pay deal that reflects the true cost of living for Unite members and their families.”

Unite is calling for Johnson Matthey management to engage in urgent and constructive talks to resolve the issue and to make a pay award that reflects the true cost of living to members.