Civil servants go on strike

By David Newble

Monday, March 8, 2010

AROUND 140 civil service staff at Broadlands House in Newport held the first of a series of one-day strikes on Monday in a national protest at government plans to change redundancy packages.

The stoppage was staged by members of the Public and Commercial Services Union (PCS) who also have staff working at the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA).

A further strike was due to take place on Tuesday.

Jackie Lederer, branch secretary for the PCS’s Isle of Wight and Hampshire area, said she was pleased with the turnout which she said saw 140 out of 230 staff at Broadlands not turn up for work.

Meanwhile, the MCA warned boat users to be on their guard during the two days of strike action, which would affect staff who co-ordinate rescues.

MCA chief executive Peter Cardy said rescuers would operate as normal and plans had been put in place to provide emergency cover for co-ordination staff.

Reporter: davidn@iwcpmail.co.uk