Members of the FDA union in the civil service who are on the path to future leadership roles have voted to strike in a dispute over pay, and Ministers have been accused of “empty promises” on pay reform.
Members of the union had a turnout of 60% and around 88% of the fast stream workers voted to strike and the FDA has warned the Cabinet Office that if they fail to negotiate on pay then they “will announce dates for strike action.”
FDA general secretary Dave Penman said, “The civil service fast stream attracts some of the brightest graduates in the country, many of whom will go on to lead the service, advising ministers and prime ministers.
“Yet they have today voted to take strike action over pay for the first time in their history.”
He added the dispute over pay has been exacerbated by the global cost-of-living squeeze “its origins are homegrown.”
Penman said, “We have been urging the Cabinet Office for years to address low pay in the fast stream, but there has been an abject failure to embrace meaningful reform.
“Instead, for far too long, the dedication and commitment of fast streamers has been exploited.”
FDA national officer for the fast stream Lauren Crowley said, “This result highlights the anger that our members are feeling, they are tired of empty promises when it comes to pay reform.
“I urge the employer to reflect on how it has allowed this to happen and take action now to ensure a fair deal for fast streamers.”
She added, “Even at this late stage we remain willing to negotiate, but negotiations must be based on a meaningful offer on pay.
“If the Cabinet Office fails to do this, we will announce dates for strike action.”
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