Union warns of possible new year bread supply disruption

The Unite union is to ballot it members at the Hovis plant in Belfast on support for industrial action over a pay dispute.

Sean McKeever of Unite claims that the rates of pay are “below the legal minimum” once overtime and shift bonuses are removed.

He said any strike action “is likely to be result in widespread disruption to bread supply in January 2020”.

“The fact that workers’ pay is consolidated means that the employer is able to get away with this – but it means that workers have to work excessively and intensively to break the minimum wage threshold,” Mr McKeever said.

“That this is the situation in one of our biggest Bread Manufacturers is a disgrace.

“Last year, Hovis turned £15 million in profits before tax – they can well afford to pay their workers a fair wage.

“Their failure to make any move has left Unite with no option but to open a ballot of Hovis workers on strike action.”

A spokesman for Hovis said the company was “disappointed” that the strike ballot will go ahead.

“We continue to operate in a very tough and competitive market so as a company that continues to make a loss,” he said.

“Negotiations with Unite regarding an enhanced pay and conditions package for our team at the Belfast bakery have been progressing and the latest offer made by Hovis has yet to be put to a staff vote. We remain committed to seeking a resolution that is acceptable to all sides”.