Unions reach recognition deals

Broadcasting union BECTU is looking to recruit more members and activists at cable group NTL following the negotiation of a new recognition agreement.

The recognition deal was signed as a result of a ballot held in August, in which staff voted by a nine-to-one margin to reject the company's plan to de-recognise the union (see last month's Workplace Report).

A number of NTL staff have already put themselves forward for training as shop stewards and safety reps since the ballot.

BECTU is also working to ensure that members' jobs are not lost in the wake of NTL's merger with Telewest, announced the same day as the recognition deal.

Meanwhile, technical union Amicus has signed a new recognition agreement covering 300 employees in production, traincare, maintenance and distribution at Bombardier Transportation in Burton on Trent.

The agreement incorporates the new information and consultation of employees (ICE) regulations, which came into force earlier this year. It provides for nine elected workforce ICE reps, all of whom will be Amicus members.

Amicus regional officer Bob Rixham said: "The agreement will lead to greater involvement from the workforce at this facility and will ensure effective workplace representation."