GMB and Unite unions have urged plastics manufacturer Goodfish to re-open talks as a second 24-hour strike gets underway in North Wales.
Striking workers at Goodfish’s plant in St Asaph have renewed calls for the company to come back to the table after withdrawing from pay negotiations.
The move comes after a rocky dispute that saw the Goodfish cancelling staff bonuses before the previous day of action on October 13.
Last Friday, the company informed workers that it intends to implement a pay increase without agreement of the onsite unions, GMB and Unite.
Both unions have criticised the move, claiming that the below-inflation pay rise will fail to meet the cost of living for striking workers.
The unions have renewed calls for the company to show a willingness to engage in ‘proactive discussions’ to de-escalate the situation.
Today our members at @GoodfishLtd in St Asaph are out on strike as their pay dispute with the company continues. Our message remains the same, Goodfish need to show that it values its workforce, by returning to negotiations and offering them a fair pay offer. @UniteWales
Alyn Thomas, GMB regional organiser, said: “Our members remain committed to action due to the fact that the company's pay imposition will still see them taking a pay cut in real terms.
“Given the company’s current communication, we’re hopeful that Goodfish will join us in further talks and avoid an escalation in actions.
“As with all negotiations, there needs to be a willingness on all sides to conduct proactive discussions.
“Our door is open if Goodfish are willing to achieve a positive outcome.”
Daryl Williams, Unite regional officer, said: “Unite members remain determined in their pursuit of a fair pay settlement at a time of rising inflation, increased gas prices and the upcoming rise in National Insurance contributions.
“The announcement from the company will not achieve that.
“There can be no end to the dispute without a willingness from the company to return to the table and reach an agreement with the unions.
“As it stands, the strike action will go ahead and Unite will continue to support our members, 100 per cent.
“Unite remain open to meaningful talks aimed at avoiding the escalation of the dispute to two 24-hour stoppages of action planned next week and call on the company to return to the table.”
Goodfish has been approached for comment.
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