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NUJ chapel ‘achieves union recognition’ at Newsquest weeklies

chris-morleyUnion members at a group of sister weeklies are claiming to have won official recognition from their newspapers’ parent company.

The National Union of Journalists says Newsquest has agreed to recognise its chapel based at Stourbridge, which is home to seven different West Midlands titles.

It now wants a new house agreement covering NUJ members at the Stourbridge News, Halesowen News, Dudley News, Kidderminster Shuttle, Bromsgrove Advertiser, Redditch & Alcester Advertiser and Droitwich Spa Advertiser.

Newsquest has declined to comment or to confirm the accuracy of the union’s claims.

The union says it was granted voluntary recognition by the company after the arbitration service ACAS confirmed that a substantial majority on the newspapers were NUJ members.

The chapel said it now looked forward to working with the management on agreeing a new house agreement, setting out working conditions.

Gurdip Thandi, Newsquest Stourbridge NUJ FoC, said: “I am absolutely delighted that our chapel has been able to achieve official recognition. It is a timely morale boost for members who face significant challenges such as the threat of more cutbacks, the growing demands on fewer staff and a pay freeze.

“The recognition came about as a result of members staying strong and working together as any strong chapel should – just as we did to save the job of a reporter during a round of redundancies last October.

“Members now have the extra reassurance of being represented by the union during negotiations and when dealing with problems.

“We are grateful the company has worked with us and now look forward to agreeing a fair house agreement as soon as possible.”

Chris Morley, pictured above left, NUJ Northern & Midlands organiser, added: “I welcome the company’s acknowledgment of the chapel’s significant membership and agreement to recognise the union without the need for a ballot.

“I look forward to working with local management to develop a robust house agreement and positive spirit of engagement for the future.

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  • February 14, 2017 at 11:15 am
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    Well done Gurdo and all the other NUJ members at Stourbridge for winning recognition, and to Chris for the undoubted support he would have given you along the way.

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