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Kent Engineers Rally Support Amid Continual Strikes
On Monday morning, engineers based in Kent took to the A249 in Maidstone, banging drums and rallying support from motorists heading to the M20. These workers are part of a 7,000-strong group currently striking in a bitter dispute.
Strike Action Enters 22nd Day Since Last Year
The latest four-day walkout ended Monday night, marking the 22nd day of strikes since the dispute erupted last year. Last weekend’s planned stoppage was paused to allow talks through Acas, the government’s conciliation service.
GMB Union Holds Firm On Fire-and-Rehire Demand
The GMB union insists no deal is possible unless the controversial fire-and-rehire tactics are scrapped.
Another four-day strike is locked in from February 26, with the union’s national executive already green-lighting further strikes into spring.
GMB national secretary Justin Bowden said: “GMB entered Acas talks in good faith, but a deal is only possible if the company removes its fire-and-rehire plan.”
“After 18 days of strikes, more than 210,000 homes are waiting for repairs, and 250,000 planned annual service visits have been scrapped.”
Centrica Stays Silent As Talks Continue
British Gas owner Centrica declined to comment, stating: “We are in a critical stage in talks with GMB through Acas and this is a confidential process.”
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