…By Henry George for TDPel Media.
Workers at the British Museum have announced a six-day strike scheduled to take place next month.
The strike is a part of an ongoing civil service dispute involving issues such as pay, pensions, and job security.
Members of the Public and Commercial Services union (PCS) will walk out from July 11 to 16, as tensions have been escalating since November of the previous year.
Dispute over Pay Recognition:
The PCS union claims that despite the Government’s recommendation for employers to provide a non-consolidated £1,500 lump sum to staff, as a response to the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, the British Museum has refused to comply.
This refusal by the museum has sparked outrage among union members, as they argue that their sacrifices during the national campaign of strike action played a significant role in influencing the Government’s recommendation.
Insulting Museum’s Refusal:
PCS General Secretary Mark Serwotka expressed his frustration, stating that it is unacceptable for the British Museum to reject the payment, especially after the Government acknowledged the financial support needed by workers during the current cost-of-living crisis.
He further described the museum’s refusal as deeply insulting to the efforts made by the union members.
Serwotka emphasized that failing to commit to the recommended payment would result in further disruptions, as the workers have made their stance clear.
Conclusion:
The upcoming six-day strike by workers at the British Museum highlights the ongoing civil service dispute regarding pay, pensions, and job security.
The refusal of the museum to adhere to the Government’s recommendation of providing a non-consolidated £1,500 lump sum payment has escalated tensions between the union and the institution.
The workers’ decision to strike signifies their determination to address these issues and further disrupt operations until their demands are met.