By staff reporter

Last updated at 12:19, Friday, 06 July 2012

Disabled workers are to stage two 24-hour strikes in protest at plans to close their factories.

Members of the GMB and Unite unions in Remploy sites across the UK – including Cleator Moor – will walk out on July 19 and 26 to express their “disgust” at the Government’s plans.

The workers have voted in favour of industrial action as part of a campaign to stop any of 54 factories closing.

Remploy’s factory in Cleator Moor, which makes protection suits for the police and military, was earmarked for closure with other sites in March.

They have warned that the Government’s plans will lead to the complete closure of all 54 factories, leading to 2,800 disabled workers’ jobs being lost.

Phil Davies, national officer of the GMB, said: “The Government’s intention to destroy thousands of disabled workers’ jobs in Remploy has given rise to an overwhelming vote for strike action. To close a factory that employs disabled people in the present economic climate is a life sentence of unemployment and poverty.”

A Department for Work and Pensions spokesman said: “We have been absolutely clear that the £320 million budget for specialist disability employment services has been protected. But by spending the money more effectively, we can support thousands more disabled people into work.

“We’re disappointed to hear that the unions are proposing to take strike action which will do nothing to secure the future jobs of Remploy staff.

First published at 11:27, Friday, 06 July 2012
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk