Solidarity with Firstsource employees amidst redundancy announcement

The Derry Call Centre Campaign (DCCC) has expressed concern for the job security and well-being of employees in one of the city’s largest call centres, Firstsource.

Firstsource announced this morning (May 25) that they will begin a redundancy consultation process in the city.

DCCC is a community group founded by Aegis the union to advance the cause of fair pay for workers in Derry.

A spokesperson for DCCC said: "The employer’s response to enquiries is frightening. They have stated that changing the priorities of their largest client has triggered the current redundancy process. 

"Right now, workers need reassurances from the business, and those reassurances have not been forthcoming.

"Local workers have reached out to us (at the DCCC) in fear of their income being lost. 

"As we grapple with the most challenging living conditions in recent memory, the DCCC is calling on all political parties to recognise the urgency of addressing the pressing issues faced by Derry’s Firstsource employees.

"Derry is already dealing with some of the lowest wages and highest unemployment levels across these islands. 

"We are urging community groups, politicians, and workers to draw a line in the sand and advocate fiercely for the workers in Firstsource to keep their jobs and for all the workers across our beloved city to gain a higher standard of living."

Gareth Moore and Joe Moore, influential figures in the Derry Call Centre Campaign, have a deep understanding of the gravity of the situation. 

Both had worked for Firstsource for years, and they are now extending an open invitation to all workers who are affected or even just seeking guidance to reach out to the campaign through the Facebook page “www.facebook.com/DerryCallCentreCampaign”. 

"The campaign is committed to providing support, advice, and a compassionate ear during these trying times.

Firstsource in Derry announces redundancies

Local politicians have called for an urgent meeting with management of Firstsource

"The Derry Call Centre Campaign is resolute in our commitment to champion the rights of call center employees, ensuring they receive the fair treatment and job security they deserve," added Joe Moore at the DCCC.

People Before Profit Councillor Shaun Harkin also expressed his concern and solidarity with workers at Firstsource.

Mr Harkin said: “Proposed redundancies at Firstsource call centre are extremely worrying. We are thinking of workers and their families - especially amid a cost of living crisis. The greed of these big employers knows no bounds.

"I encourage Firstsource workers with concerns and to know their rights to get in touch with their trade union and the Derry Call Centre Campaign.

"People Before Profit are requesting an urgent meeting with management to seek clarification and to urge the company to take all steps to protect jobs in Derry and the North West.

"We are also calling on the Council to advocate for workers and the protection of jobs. Invest NI must also be on the front foot in defence of jobs here.

"All political representatives should speak with one voice in support of workers."