Royal Mail management challenged to 'clarify' Derry sick pay

"Royal Mail management has been challenged to "urgently clarify" why a number of postal workers in Derry have not received sick pay.

The call came from Derry City and Strabane District councillor, Shaun Harkin (People Before Profit).

Cllr Harkin said: "Royal Mail bosses must urgently clarify why a number of postal workers have not received sick pay. Postal workers who were refused sick pay in the run-up to the holiday period contacted People Before Profit for support.

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"Following discussions with Communications Workers Union representatives, we contacted the head of Royal Mail NI HR seeking clarification and urging them to immediately rectify the situation.

"Royal Mail management have told us they are 'looking into this as a matter of urgency' but no clarification has been provided as yet. The denial of sick pay, especially amid a cost of living crisis, is unacceptable. 

"Postal workers have been on picket lines for a cost of living pay rise and to protect their job security. We believe Royal Mail bosses, led by CEO Simon Thompson, have acted in a destructive way. Denying sick pay constitutes a further vindictive response to justified strike action taken by workers. This is another example why trade union representation and a collective voice at work is needed."

Cllr Harkin said People Before profit would continue to press Royal Mail bosses on sick pay.

"We urge continued public support for the demands of postal workers and the Communications Workers Union."