Royal Mail strike cash offer slammed

THE Royal Mail has been accused of “desperation” after offering postal workers £300 if they do not go on strike over the controversial privatisation of the company.

Ballots are out for strike action at Royal Mail. Picture: Julie Bull

Chief executive Moya Greene has written to employees urging them to vote no in a ballot of Communication Workers Union (CWU) members.

“Any strike action, or the threat of it, is likely to be damaging to our business. We all benefit from a successful Royal Mail. Our customers depend on us. That is especially the case in the run-up to Christmas.

“We lost business to competitors following strike action in 2007 and 2009. Any loss of business has a direct impact on your job security. I ask you to think very carefully about what the point of a strike would be. Is it really the way to reach agreement?”

Ms Greene said workers had been offered a “highly competitive” pay deal of 8.6% over three years, including a £300 lump sum in year one.

“We offered a lump sum of £300 (pro-rata for part timers), payable in December 2013, as long as there is no industrial action.

“Many of you have said to me that it is unfair that people should lose this money if others in their office go on strike and they work normally. I agree. So, we would make this payment provided you have not taken action yourself.”

Dave Ward, deputy general secretary of the CWU, said: “This is an act of desperation and discrimination.

“Postal workers won’t be fooled and will vote to fight to protect their terms and conditions against the impact of privatisation.”

The ballot closes later this month.