Macclesfield communications workers begin two-day strike
A two day strike of Communication Workers Union members is taking place in Macclesfield.
The first day of the strike sees BT and Openreach staff striking over pay, as part of a nationwide movement.
Since 8am on Monday, six workers have been on strike attracting drivers, while stationed next to the Hibel Road Carpark.
And from Tuesday at 8am, Royal Mail staff will join the internet technicians on strike, where campaigners will meet at the Royal Mail office on Jordangate.
Nathan Flood, Engineer for Openreach and Macclesfield resident, had this to say as to why he and his colleagues striking.
"It is mostly about the pay," he said.
"We were given a flat-rate pay rise of £1500 instead of a percentage [increase] [to not take industrial action, Union bosses described this as 'incredibly low'].
"We're a bit worried if we don't take a stand this time, then what might happen in the future as well.
"We did a strike for two days a couple of weeks ago as well."
In 2021, Communications Workers Union members took a flat-rate pay rise of £1500. This was their first increase in pay since 2019.
But now, with the ongoing cost of living crisis, staff have took to the streets once again.
"We took last year's offer, we understood it was hard times. But this year, we are not having that," added Nathan.
"Obviously it is because of the the cost of living. None of us today have thankfully had to do it yet, but there are many in the Union who have had to use food banks.
"We all think we are in quite a well paying job, so it doesn't make any sense.
"When we see the BT CEO [Philip Jansen] take a pay rise earlier this month of 32%. It gets us down really."
As well as having the support of cars honking their horns, their location is convenient as it is also right next to the BT Exchange and Royal Mail buildings.
Openreach Limited owned by BT, which connects Macclesfield and the UK to broadband and phone calls.
A BT Spokesperson said: "We know that our colleagues are dealing with the impacts of high inflation and, although we're disappointed, we respect their decision to strike.
"We have made the best pay award we could and we are in constant discussions with the CWU to find a way forward from here. In the meantime, we will continue to work to minimise any disruption and keep our customers and the country connected."
Another man on strike who also works for Openreach added: "With the forecasts of inflation being 18% next April, electric bills average £6,000 from April next year, we think £1500 is not enough for us."
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