Wire industry deal ends

A 3% pay deal for 2003 and 2004 covering 500 workers at Bekaert Fencing in Sheffield is one of the first company-level deals to be done following the winding up of the Wire and Wire Rope Joint Industrial Council (JIC) at the end of 2002.

The Council used to set minimum terms and conditions for about 20 companies in the industry.

The unions are looking to create a consultative forum in its place. The ISTC community union hopes that this will allow vital health and safety work previously undertaken through the JIC to continue.