DVSA strikes

Prospect trade union members at DVSA have voted ‘overwhelmingly’ for industrial action. The decision follows a breakdown in talks with management over pay, terms and conditions. The industrial action will start on 20 November, with a short strike from 08.00 to 11.00, followed by an indefinite work to rule. It is expected to disrupt driving tests, annual (MOT) testing for PSVs, specialist schemes, such as individual vehicle approvals and roadside enforcement activities.

Prospect negotiator, Helen Stevens, said, ‘Prospect has been trying to reach an agreement with DVSA for months and industrial action is our last resort. The agency, supported by the Department for Transport, seems determined to railroad detrimental changes to terms, conditions and pay on its staff. Our hard-working DVSA members are frustrated by management’s intransigence. We have tried everything to resolve this and we do not want our action to have an impact on the public, but we have no choice. Our members are dedicated specialists who work day and night, in all weather conditions, to ensure HGVs and PSVs are safe and to deliver driving tests for the public. Prospect wants to meet DVSA management to resolve this dispute. However, our members are angry and worried and have made it clear that they are determined to protect their jobs, the agency and road safety. Sadly, industrial action now appears inevitable.’