GMB have called off the official strike action by 160 members employed by Alstom which was due to start today at 6.00 am at the Staythorpe Power Station construction site in Nottinghamshire in a dispute about basis for selection for redundancies.

A 90 day consultation process has been underway since December over redundancies on the site.

Long and difficult meetings took place over several days between the GMB and Alstom. An agreement was reached on the dispute which enabled GMB to call off the strike.

It was on this site that a full audit of Italian sub contractors Somi, working for main contractor Alstom, uncovered that Somi has been underpaying employees by 1,300 euros per month and this led to protests last week in London.

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Andy Fletcher, GMB Regional Organiser said: "GMB members were extremely angry that they had been forced into taking action against redundancy selection criteria that were in breach of the ACAS code. GMB was willing to negotiate but was dismayed that Alstom had been unable to negotiate or consult with the union since 8 December 2009 when the redundancies were announced.

"The agreement reached between the GMB and Alstom provides that in line with the ACAS code agency staff will leave the site before directly employed workers on PAYE terms are selected for redundancy.

"It was also agreed that both parties will utilise the agreed NAECI Procedures for future issues at the site.

"I want to pay credit to shop stewards not only this site but GMB shop stewards and members around the country for their support and commitment to protect the interests of Engineering Construction workers.

"Whilst this dispute regarding the redundancies is now ended the GMB will continue to fight to bring contractors to account where they breach the national agreement and under-cut terms and conditions.

"The GMB has already delivered its demands to Alstom regarding the unacceptable practices of some contactors. The union will be seeking urgent talks with Alstom to resolve outstanding issues."

(CD/GK)