London Underground Sodexo staff balloted in union victimisation dispute

Staff working for London Underground caterers Sodexo are to be balloted for both strike action and action short of a strike over the victimisation and dismissal of union activist Petrit Mihaj.

Petrit has been a major force in building union organisation on the LUL Sodexo depot catering contract and has been instrumental in securing union recognition and delivering improvements in pay and conditions and effective representation of staff.

RMT is in no doubt that it is as a result of his high-profile union activities that Petrit has now been singled out, victimised and dismissed. RMT is pursuing Petrit’s case through the employment tribunal and will be balloting members from this week to send out the clearest possible message to the company that we are united in defence of both Petrit Mihaj and strong and effective trade unionism at contractors like Sodexo.

The ballot will open on the 19th June and will close on the 8th July.

RMT Acting General Secretary Mick Cash said:

“RMT will not allow this outrageous attack on unions reps and union organisation at facilities giant Sodexo to go unchallenged.

“Petrit Mihaj has stood up for the union and for his colleagues and it is only right that the entire RMT organisation stands shoulder to shoulder with him now that he is being attacked and victimised.

“This is the most blatant and clear-cut example of victimisation and dismissal on the grounds of union activity that it is possible to imagine. RMT is building for a massive yes vote for action as we campaign for the reinstatement of Petrit Mihaj and in defence of strong, fighting union organisation at Sodexo.”