Workers at Webforge in Welshpool were disgusted and dismayed today to discover they had been locked out after taking protected industrial action.



AMWU State Secretary Steve McCartney said that employees and the union had been in EBA negotiations, but talks had failed over Webforge’s offer of below CPI pay raises in the midst of high increases in household charges.

“This poor management decision shows a lack of respect for their employees and their families.

“This comes after intimidation and threats to workers who took part in industrial action today, our members have been told by Webforge that they would not be entitled to standard overtime entitlements if they participated in the action toady.” said Mr McCartney

“We believe that this is a breach of coercion and discrimination provisions of the Fair Work Act by Webforge.

“To take this action the workers have had to go through a lengthy process with Fairwork Australia. It’s a disgrace that companies are able to take wildcat industrial action against employees without notice.


“Webforge has been inconsistent putting offers on the table and withdrawing them. This has caused the employees to become disillusioned with the process and they believe that Webforge wasn’t bargaining in good faith.

“We are demanding that Webforge comes back to the negotiating table to negotiate in good faith and stop wildcat industrial action against employees.” Mr McCartney said.