Threatening to walk out if jobs contracted out
Traffic wardens in Ealing are threatening to strike if the council contracts out their jobs to a private company next week.
The wardens known as civil enforcement officers (CEOs) are considering industrial action if the town hall hands over the service to NSL, formerly NCP.
Officers say the new company will be more concerned with generating money rather than maintaining law and order and are fearful for their employment rights.
John Noblemunn from Unison says :'' Staff have had an indicative ballot - not an official one - but are prepared to take it further if necessary. We're still negotiating with the council.''
Council leader Jason Stacey said it was too early to comment fully before the decision is made
NSL spokesman Tim Cowen, said, " We can understand anyone’s anxiety at the prospect of a change of employer – indeed, we probably understand this better than most, because we have transferred more than half our 5,000 strong workforce in from other organisations, both private and public sector. Transferred staff are always reassured that their contractual terms and conditions are protected by law.
"And we can allay anyone’s fears that the service we deliver is focused on the volume of penalty charge notices issued. NSL has never operated in this way and we have lobbied the Government to bring in new legislation to ban such practices. In addition Ealing Council’s tender specification specifically rules out remunerating the contractor directly or indirectly based on the volume of PCNs issued."
The decision will be taken by the council next week.
January 21st, 2010
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