A MEETING to try and resolve refuse truck drivers’ strike has been moved forward to tomorrow in what has been branded a “positive step”.

Eastbourne Borough Council confirmed it has moved the meeting date forward from this Friday to tomorrow, which could see an end to the three days of strike action planned between January 7 and 10.

GMB Union told The Argus it hopes the move is a sign of things to come “if the talks are as positive as this act”.

Last week, GMB Union confirmed that HGV drivers for South East Environmental Service Ltd, which is owned by Eastbourne Borough Council, would be striking on New Year’s Eve.

The council said it found this move “deeply disappointing” after senior management met with GMB Union on December 22.

The workers’ strike is over pay and working conditions, with HGV drivers wanting a pay increase to £13.50 an hour. Drivers also claim they do not have a place to all keep dry in the mornings when it is raining. Declan Mac Intyre, GMB organiser, described the staff facilities as "disgraceful".

Declan Mac Intyre told The Argus: “I can confirm that the management team from the council have now offered to bring Friday's meeting forward for tomorrow.

The Argus: A meeting will be taking place tomorrowA meeting will be taking place tomorrow

“This is a positive step. If the talks are as positive as this act, I hope it can lead to GMB members being able to suspend further strike action.”

The council said it would not be commenting until after tomorrow’s meeting.

Meanwhile, the union announced yesterday that it has added another six days of strike action, from January 14 to 21.

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