Possible Unique Royal Mail Workers Threaten Strike Over Reported ‘Fire and Rehire’ Scheme
The Royal Mail is facing the threat of a strike from its workers over a reported ‘fire and rehire’ scheme. The scheme, which is said to be under consideration by the company, would see workers being dismissed and then rehired on new contracts with worse terms and conditions.
The Communication Workers Union (CWU), which represents Royal Mail workers, has warned that such a move would be “unacceptable” and has threatened to take industrial action if the company goes ahead with the plan.
The CWU has accused the Royal Mail of trying to “bully” its workers into accepting worse conditions, and has called on the company to engage in meaningful negotiations with the union.
The Royal Mail has denied that it is planning to implement a ‘fire and rehire’ scheme, but has said that it is looking at ways to reduce costs and improve efficiency.
The company has been struggling financially in recent years, with declining mail volumes and increased competition from online retailers. It has also faced criticism over its handling of the Covid-19 pandemic, with some workers claiming that they have not been provided with adequate protection.
The threat of a strike comes at a difficult time for the Royal Mail, which is already facing significant challenges. The company will need to find a way to balance the needs of its workers with the need to reduce costs and improve efficiency if it is to survive in the long term.
The CWU has said that it is willing to work with the Royal Mail to find a solution that is acceptable to both sides, but has warned that it will not accept any attempt to impose worse conditions on its members.
The Royal Mail will need to tread carefully if it is to avoid a damaging strike that could further damage its reputation and financial position. It will need to engage in meaningful negotiations with the CWU and find a way to address the concerns of its workers while also addressing its financial challenges.
