Of drivers transfer for less
Page 12
If you've noticed an error in this article please click here to report it so we can fix it.
• More than two-thirds of Elf Oil's 23 drivers have opted to join Wincanton following its takeover of Elf's remaining inhouse transport fleet (CM 11-17 August).
The 16 drivers who transferred on 5 September face a minimum cut in annual pay of £2,000, according to the Transport & General Workers Unionit had hoped the drivers would reject the one-off compensation payment of £7,000 £13,500 (depending on the length of service).
The union wanted the drivers to take the case to industrial tribunal on the grounds that their earnings should have transferred with them under the Transfer of Undertakings Regulations.
TGWU district secretary, Brian Bowen says: "The problem is other companies might think they can now get away with doing the same thing."
Under Wincanton's conditions the drivers earn £332 for a 471/2-hour guaranteed week, compared with the £372.60 for 39 guaranteed hours at Elf.
However, Wincanton claims the drivers can improve their pay by productivity earnings and when there is an increase in work.
Seven drivers took voluntary severance together with the compensation payment and their pension entitlements.