WATCH: More strikes to come in January

Monday 10 December 2018

The head of one of Jersey's main unions has warned that further strikes are on the cards over the stalled pay deal with the States, but not until after Christmas.

JCSA Prospect chief Terry Renouf was speaking after Friday's strike which saw hundreds of union members down tools for two hours in the morning.

He said that despite the very poor weather, he was pleased with the numbers who turned out to show their anger with the States Employment who have repeatedly told them there is no more money available to improve on below-inflation pay offers:

“I can’t express how I felt when I saw the number of people who had turned out in the bad weather to show their support. There was a whole spectrum of people from within the organisation. I was quite cut up with emotion when I saw how many people there were… I do take these things to heart.” 

Pictured: hundreds braved the rain in Liberation Square to show their support for the strike. 

When asked whether the island would see further strike action,, Mr Renouf said that there is, “...absolutely…enthusiasm to continue this until a resolution is reached. Further strike action is definitely on the cards.”

However, Mr Renouf added that civil servants won’t be striking again this side of Christmas, as they’re waiting to gauge the appetite for industrial action amongst other unions.

He was also critical of the Chief Minister Senator John Le Fondré for saying that the strike wasn't an "emergency situation" as critical services would still be maintained:

“I don’t know how he can describe this as not an emergency situation when you’ve got members in Health withdrawing their labour… members in liquid and solid waste withdrawing their labour and plenty of others who I haven’t mentioned. I don’t think he’s got a full grasp on the situation.”

Video: those who went on strike explain why they felt the industrial action was necessary.

“In terms of health a number of members were on strike but remained on site in case there was an emergency… it shows their level of professionalism and concern for people on the island.”

“Once again we do apologise to the public for the inconvenience this has caused. The resolution is in the gift of States Members… it does take two to tango.”