Bexley’s already month-long bin strike is expected to continue at least another 12 days, according to the council.

A total of 140 bin workers took industrial action against contractor Serco on July 12, following disputes over pay and victimisation, causing rubbish to pile up across the borough. 

Unite, the union representing aggrieved employees, told Bexley Council their strike will last until at least August 22. 

A spokesperson for Bexley Council said: "We are very sorry for the continued disruption caused to our waste and recycling collections because of the industrial action being taken by Unite members employed by Serco. 

News Shopper: The strike began on July 12The strike began on July 12

"Thank you for everything you are doing to help keep the borough clean in very difficult circumstances. 

"The dispute is between the union and Serco.

"We are not directly involved, but we have been urging both sides to talk and find a solution, so the strike can end and services return to normal. 

"Three conciliation meetings have taken place at ACAS (Advisory Conciliation and Arbitration Service) and we hope these will continue and result in an agreement to return to work. 

"In the meantime, Unite have told Serco that their strike action will continue until at least 22 August.

"Most of the Serco staff who collect our waste and recycling are not on strike. They are working extra hours to maintain the best service possible." 

Unite claims that around 50 staff are owed substantial back pay as Serco has failed to pay according to stipulated pay scales.

They allege this has resulted in existing drivers being paid just £22,000 a year, while new recruits are paid £28,000 for the same roles. 

They further claim Serco has weaponised its drug and alcohol testing policy in order to victimise union members, while failing to provide advice or support to workers who are experiencing substance misuse problems. 

Bexley Council says the majority of Serco staff are not on strike and are working extra hours to maintain services. 

Nonetheless, many residents are still yet to receive a collection since early July.

Unite regional officer Tabusam Ahmed said: “Our members do not want to strike and are well aware of the inconvenience caused to residents.

"Unfortunately, they have no choice because Serco has refused to put forward any proposals that could end this dispute. 

“Unless Bexley council intervenes, these strikes could last until October. The council has stated that it wants a solution to be found. But promises to meet with Unite so far have amounted to nothing but empty words. 

“Our members won’t give up until the pay and drug testing issues are addressed. They have done nothing wrong and it is time for Bexley council to make Serco face up to its responsibilities.”

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