GMB Union has delayed strike action for talks with RCT leader Andrew Morgan, with the first date of strike action scheduled for 30 July
Eleventh hour talks have been scheduled for Wednesday 20 July between GMB refuse workers and Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council.
If the talks fail then it could see 130 refuse workers strike in July, leaving around 108,000 homes without refuse collections.
GMB members at RCT CBC refuse and recycling dept have voted overwhelmingly to support industrial action with a majority of 95 percent back in May.
There has been some movement in recent weeks, but the union is calling for amendments to the job evaluation scheme after the current system leaves essential workers short-changed for their work.
During the pandemic, refuse workers alongside other essential service workers were put at risk, whilst senior council management, worked from the safety of their home.
Over the last decade local government staff have seen their wages cut by around 25 per cent.
Gareth Morgans, GMB Regional Organiser said:
“We welcome these eleventh hour talks to try and salvage the situation.
“We’re not that far away from a deal, so long as RCT are willing to listen and act on our concerns.
“This group of workers has been grossly underpaid ever since a job evaluation in 2011, and the pandemic and current cost of living crisis have brought this to the fore.
“It’s time they were listened to and get a fair rate.”
