Workers at Haldane Fisher’s central supply store in Newry are to begin all‑out strike action next week in a dispute over pay, a trade union has confirmed.
Unite the Union says up to 40 of its members at the facility are due to walk out from Wednesday, June 10, following what it describes as an “escalating” disagreement over wages at the building and timber merchant.
According to Unite, the move follows a ballot in which members voted to reject a two per cent pay increase which the union says has been imposed by management. The union argues the rise is below inflation and does not keep pace with increases in the minimum wage.
The Newry supply store is a key hub for Haldane Fisher’s operations across Northern Ireland, and industrial action there is expected by the union to cause significant disruption to the company’s services.
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said workers had seen their earnings eroded in recent years.
“Haldane-Fisher workers are low paid who have watched their pay fail to keep pace with inflation or increases to the bare legal minimum.
“They are determined to end a practice of having paltry pay increases imposed by management. They can count on the full support of Unite in their struggle for decent pay and respect.”
Unite regional officer Sean Smyth criticised what he described as management’s attitude towards the union and its members.
“Management’s approach to our union and our membership has been highly disrespectful. This has really angered our members and this ballot for strike action has been decisive.
“Management can still avert the severe disruption to the company’s operations across Northern Ireland. They must return to the table with a pay offer addressing our members’ legitimate pay expectations.”
Haldane Fisher has been approached for comment.
