A waste management firm is taking legal action against a leading trade union in an escalating dispute over union recognition. Veolia said it has started defamation proceedings against Unite and its general Sharon Graham following months of protests and what it described as "smear campaigns".
The company claims the union has attempted to harm its business through a sustained campaign of defamation. Since August 2024, dozens of Unite members based in Sheffield have been on strike demanding union recognition at the site.
Legal action follows strike campaign
Veolia said Unite's actions seek to pressure the company into breaking an existing union recognition agreement it has with the GMB union at its Sheffield facility. The firm accused Unite of using "excessive tactics" that contrast sharply with its usual industrial relations across the UK.
A Veolia spokesperson said the company does not take legal action lightly but must defend itself against what it considers baseless attacks. "We do not take this legal action lightly, but we must stand up against Unite's excessive tactics that are in total contrast to the quality of our industrial relations in the UK," the spokesperson said.
Company defends business reputation
The waste management firm emphasised it works closely with five trade union partners across the UK, including Unite. "Despite working closely with five trade union partners across the UK, including Unite, we find ourselves targeted by this defamatory campaign," the spokesperson added.
The company said it will always support good industrial relations but will not allow attacks on its business, reputation, colleagues or partners through what it called "baseless accusations". Unite has been approached for comment on the defamation claims.
(PA) Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.