narrowboatworld

AFTER a long-running battle the lock keepers on the Thames have now agreed new employment contracts with the Environment Agency which safeguards their jobs.

Last year there was strong opposition by the lock keepers at the agency's plans to sell off their cottages and cut down on manned locks, with great resistance and a campaign against the agency backed by narrowboatworld.

Following more than eight months of negotiations a final agreement has been reached between the agency and the union and will now be implemented, Alan Tilbury tells us.

Senior officer for public services at GMB Union, Ted Purcell explained:

"It has been a long drawn out process, but we are glad to say we have finally got there. We balloted our members and it was unanimously accepted by our membership so we are all pleased to draw it to a close."

The new contract covers a range of terms and conditions and means the  Environment Agency will maintain a resident lock and weir keeper at all locks along the River Thames.

The changes include a new job profile for both residents and non-residents with much clearer accountabilities, formalised standby and call-out arrangements.