Cleaners at airport set for strike over pay freeze

Cleaners at Manchester Airport working for a separate company are set to go on strike over a two-year pay freeze.

The workers are employed by Mitie Cleaning and Environmental Services and are members of the union Unite.

The are currently being paid just the minimum wage (£7.50) are demanding a significant increase just above the living wage ( currently at £8.45) and an extra £1 an hour backdated to April, 2016.

On a turnout of 73% turnout, 100% of the workers who took part in the ballot voted for strike action.

Unite regional officer, Jimmy Carter said: “Keeping Britain’s third busiest airport clean is hard work, after a two year pay freeze workers have had enough.

“A 100% vote in favour of strike action should send a clear message to Mitie. It is time to negotiate or face the prospect of disruption to the smooth running of the airport, putting its reputation as the country’s best at risk.

“Workers are struggling to make ends meet on the minimum wage and are demanding a living wage to afford the basics like food and rent. It’s time for Mitie to become a living wage employer.”

Mitie employs around 200 cleaners at the airport.

The BusinessDesk.com has contacted Mitie for comment.