Strikes at Diageo’s Cameronbridge intensify
GMB Scotland has revealed its members will escalate industrial action at Cameronbridge distillery in Fife following further failed talks with Diageo.
“If the company continues down this path, our greatest strength will be our unity. By standing together, we can send a clear message that the workforce expects to be listened to, respected, and treated fairly.”
The strikes began on Monday (28 September) and involved union members striking on a rota basis for 16 days.
However, GMB Scotland has now asked all members to strike on four days: 12 October, 15 October, 19 October and 22 October.
The union previously said it had been in consultation with Diageo during a seven-hour meeting prior to strike action beginning, with no agreement reached.
Another meeting was held yesterday (30 September), with a similar conclusion.
In a letter to union members, Daniel Reid, GMB Scotland organiser, said: “At today’s meeting with the company, rather than working with your representatives to resolve the outstanding issues and negotiate in good faith, the company has chosen to escalate this dispute by pushing forward to individual consultation on its proposals.
“Over the last three months, your reps have continued to challenge the company’s plans and put forward practical alternatives. Despite this, the company has chosen not to properly consider the concerns, ideas and solutions raised by the workforce.
“The reasons given for these changes have shifted throughout the process, but one thing has remained constant: the impact on workers. These proposals create uncertainty for some members, significant change for others, and increased pressure on those left behind.
“You deserve better. You deserve to have your voices heard and your concerns properly considered before decisions that affect your livelihoods and the livelihoods of those who come next are imposed.
“If the company continues down this path, our greatest strength will be our unity. By standing together, we can send a clear message that the workforce expects to be listened to, respected, and treated fairly.”
Around 73 workers at the grain whisky plant in Levenmouth are at risk of losing their jobs, with Diageo planning to make 10 roles redundant. Two of these roles are already vacant and will not be filled.
Diageo stated that all impacted workers are eligible for alternative open roles.
Following the news, it reiterated its previous statement: “We are disappointed with the decision to strike. We do not expect any disruption to the availability of our products resulting from this action.
“The proposal to remove up to 10 roles at Cameronbridge distillery is a difficult but necessary step as we maintain reduced production volumes.
“This approach protects the long-term competitiveness of our business. We remain open to constructive dialogue with our employees and their representatives throughout this process.”
