Heinz strikes suspended

Two 24-hour strikes at Heinz's frozen potato factory in Westwick have been suspended while the Amicus trade union ballots members on new proposals over working patterns.

Nineteen engineering workers, who had already gone on two 24-hour strikes on July 20 and 27 in protest over a change in their shift system from eight to 12 hours, had intended to take part in strikes on August 3 and 10.

But Amicus claimed 12-hour shifts were too demanding for engineering workers, most of whom are in their fifties. “Our members are more mature than the production staff and have elderly relatives and young children to sort out,” said Amicus regional officer Mark Robinson.

“There is also a health and safety issue - people are more likely to make mistakes when they're tired and could have accidents,” he said. Similarly, their repair work might not be up to standard, which could cause production staff to get injured, he added.

Although full details of the new proposal had not been released, Robinson stated: “There will be a gradual phase in of the 12-hour shifts, but the majority of current staff will stay on eight hours. We are recommending that members accept the revised proposals. I'm happy and they're happy.”

Heinz said: “The new proposal would meet our objectives as it provides 24 hour cover - we're all feeling positive about it. This looks like a route forward.”

The site produces Aunt Bessie's roast potatoes, Harry Ramsden's chips and Tesco own-label potato waffles.