AquaGib are calling for their Water Networks staff to return to the “negotiating table” to end industrial action.

A statement from AquaGib follows below:

The Industrial Action taken by AquaGib’s Water Networks Department (WND) regarding their terms and conditions of employment is having an increasing impact on non-urgent maintenance operations.

AquaGib management has already put forward a proposal that responds comprehensively to the claims made by the WND. This offer includes further improvements to the already favourable terms and conditions enjoyed by AquaGib WND staff.

The salaries and conditions at AquaGib are highly competitive, with salaries and conditions that are well above industry standards and significantly better than comparable roles both in the private and public sector. Additionally, there is a proposal on the table from AquaGib management that further enhances these terms.

AquaGib has already engaged with the Unions to agree and set out a timeframe for continued negotiations with a view to an amicable and positive resolution, contingent upon the end of the current Selective Industrial Action.

With this in mind, AquaGib management are reviewing contingency measures to ensure public services are maintained and are also considering the next steps if the Industrial Action is not deescalated. AquaGib calls on the Water Network’s Department to return to normal duties and allow negotiations to proceed in a constructive manner, ensuring that public services are not disrupted in any way and that meaningful progress can be achieved.

AquaGib remains committed to working with WND staff and the unions to reach a fair and balanced outcome for all employees, but this can only be done in an environment of mutual respect and ongoing dialogue, free from the constraints of Industrial Action.