GMB union has accused Carmarthenshire Council is playing 'Russian roulette' with residents' safety over a gritter strike.
The Union has criticised the authority's reckless behaviour, after residents were told yesterday arrangements were in place to ‘ensure the safety of travelling residents’.
Gritters in Carmarthenshire are on strike today [5 January 2022] after the council failed to adhere to a collective agreement signed with gritting staff back in 2020.
Unions have agreed with the Council to undertake emergency cover, which means the overwhelming majority of Carmarthenshire’s Road network will remain ungritted.
Council staff picketed last night at depots across Carmarthen, with further picket lines due to take place this evening.
According to the council the county is heading for colder weather over the next few weeks, with a real risk of icy conditions, sleet and snow, meaning there is a real risk to the safety of residents undertaking travel on all but major roads.
Peter Hill GMB organiser said:
“Right now the council is playing Russian Roulette with the safety of Carmarthenshire residents.
“Large chunks of the road network were not gritted last night, and it will remain the case for the next 48 hours.
“Our members are also Carmarthenshire residents and we’re advising our families and friends to avoid the roads over the next 48 hours as many will not be gritted.
“Rather than brandishing an agreement to deal with essential emergency work, they should be advising residents to avoid travelling unless utterly necessary".
