Lock-keeper strike called off after Environment Agency pledges more staff

WEIR and lock-keepers along the River Thames have suspended strike action following a last-minute offer from the Environment Agency.

Members of the GMB Union had been set to strike after 90 per cent voted in favour of industrial action over safety concerns caused by staff shortages.

“Work to rule” action had also been due to begin on Tuesday but that has now been delayed following an updated offer from the agency. This would have seen employees strictly follow all of the rules and do only what their contract requires — no more, no less.

Those employees would avoid voluntary overtime, extra tasks or any flexibility they would offer as a form of goodwill in the workplace.

The agency said it welcomed the lock-keepers’ decision “to stand down from action”.

GMB confirmed the new deal would see at least 80 staff on the river during the summer — 28 more than are currently employed. Kevin Brandstatter, GMB national officer, said: “It’s good the Environment Agency has pledged more staff and appears to value these hard-working professionals.”

He said the union would now “examine the finer points of the offer” with members before deciding on next steps.

Mr Brandstatter added: “The last thing our River Thames weir and lock-keepers wanted to do was take industrial action but they were worried about the safety of the public — and themselves.” There are currently 52 trained staff employed by the Environment Agency along the length of the river.

The GMB Union previously said that figure should be 90 during peak season.

Concerns focused on the risks posed to people and property along the river.

On days beset with a combination of planned leave, holidays and sickness absence, as few as 32 trained staff may be available to operate 45 locks and weirs, the union said.

The union argued this was not safe and said workers were being pushed to breaking point to maintain safety on the Thames.

As such, GMB Union launched a ballot on Friday, May 2, asking members whether they were prepared to take industrial action.

The vote closed on Friday, May 23, with a decisive result in favour of strikes. Action was set to begin in June unless a resolution could be reached. The Environment Agency said: “Following negotiations with our lock-keepers over recent weeks, we have agreed a staffing level that ensures the continued safe operation of locks and weirs and the safety of river users.

“We are committed to continuing to work with and listen to them to modernise the service we offer.”

There are 45 non-tidal locks on the River Thames, including in Caversham and Shiplake.