Cleaners working on the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) are set to begin strike action on Thursday in a dispute over sick pay. The industrial action follows a failure by contractor Bidvest Noonan to offer company sick pay to its staff, despite a similar arrangement being in place for employees of another DLR contractor, Amulet.

Both Bidvest Noonan and Amulet operate under KAD, the company engaged by Transport for London to run the DLR service. RMT, the union representing the cleaners, has repeatedly sought to resolve the issue with Bidvest Noonan, but the contractor has reportedly delayed meaningful engagement, stating it is “discussing the matter with TfL,” despite more than six months of negotiations.

With no progress made, union members have decided that strike action is now necessary. RMT General Secretary Eddie Dempsey said:

“Bidvest Noonan on the DLR have behaved appallingly and not made any offer on company sick pay that is remotely acceptable. Their refusal to engage properly with the union shows the contempt local company representatives have for their staff who do a vital job on DLR. Our members will not put up with this appalling treatment and are prepared to take sustained strike action if necessary.”

Image: RMT