Ainscough and crane drivers bid to resolve pay row

TALKS are set to take place tomorrow to between management of Ainscough and the union representing 500 crane drivers who have rejected a two-year pay deal of 1.5% and 1.75%.

The Wigan-based company – the country’s largest crane hirer –
is meeting officials of Unite to try to head off the threat of industrial action.

Unite’s crane operator members working on major construction sites and projects across the UK such as the M1 and M6 motorway upgrades and new Forth Road Bridge haven’t ruled out balloting for industrial action should talks fail.

Unite national officer Bernard McAulay said: “Our members are highly skilled crane operators making safety critical decisions on a minute by minute basis.

“They have played a critical role in making Ainscough the success it is today and in keeping Britain building.

“The last thing our members want to be doing is balloting for industrial action, but they feel pushed to breaking point by a pitiful pay offer which fails to address excessive overtime.

“We would urge management to use the opportunity of these talks to hammer out a deal that recognises their valuable contribution and avoids the prospect of a damaging pay dispute.”

Ainscough declined to comment when contacted by TheBusinessDesk.