Hundreds of Unite Members on Strike Action Vow to Strike Again

LONDON, February 18, 2009: Unite members at Sogefi Filtration Ltd in South Wales are continuing their strike action today following action by management which the union believes breached long standing agreements.

The workers warn that further strikes will follow unless management move towards an amicable settlement.

Over 400 Unite members voted for strike action in a recent ballot and began the action yesterday which will conclude at 10pm tonight.

Unite officials are engaged with management who have imposed a series of changes including changes to their terms and conditions including dismissing staff without due notice and the withdrawal of flexible holidays and also the closure of the staff canteen with less than a week's notice.

Andrea Jones, Unite Regional Officer said:

"Staff morale is at an all time low at the moment because of the constant chipping away at our members' terms and conditions by management. Our members decided enough was enough when the company withdrew the right to flexible holidays.

"Despite genuine efforts by the Unite Shop Stewards Committee to work with the company, the union believes Sogefi has unfortunately adopted a very negative approach to industrial relations.

"If the company does not move towards an amicable settlement, it is inevitable that further action will take place."

Notes to Editors

WHERE:

Sogefi Filtration Ltd, Llantrisant Industrial Estate, Pontyclun, Rhondda Cynon Taff, CF72 8YU

WHEN:

10pm on Tuesday 17 February - 10pm on Wednesday 18 February 2009