20 May 2021
RE: Ballot Update
Dear Member
Further to the previous confirmation issued today regarding the acceptance by the ex-Debenhams workers of the €3m fund please be advised of the following
- The national Shop Stewards’ Group will meet as soon as possible to consider the next steps in relation to the €3m fund. The meeting will also hear an update with regard to the ongoing campaign for legislative change and the outstanding WRC cases.
- As a consequence of the ballot result the official dispute has come to an end and this will necessitate the removal of Mandate picket boards from all ex Debenhams store locations.
- The following is an extract from a media statement released by the union today.
Today’s ballot outcome is testament to the strong will and resilience of our striking members who refused to accept defeat in the face of adversity. These brave trade unionists maintained their legal pickets no matter the weather and in the midst of a global pandemic they socially distanced on picket lines whilst facing down the government and KPMG at every opportunity. We acknowledge this is not a perfect deal as it falls short of our members’ original demands, however, it represents the best achievable negotiated settlement under very difficult circumstances.
Collectively, we have finally reached a satisfactory outcome but we must continue to strive to ensure that the fund delivers the maximum benefit possible for the ex-Debenhams workers. Another key objective for Mandate emanating from this dispute is to vigorously pursue legislative changes to ensure circumstances similar to this dispute are prevented from ever happening again. We must, without any further delay, have these legal protections urgently delivered by Government in order to protect workers into the future. Delivery on this key objective will not be made easy but we are fully committed to making this happen to honour the legacy of our ex-Debenhams members and their incredible trade union fighting spirit.
Debenhams National Team