CIRC 063: INDUSTRIAL ACTION BY PRISON OFFICERS AT LES NICOLLES FACILITY, GUERNSEY

The Union has been made aware that a post has been made on social media regarding temporary deployment of retired Prison Officers to Guernsey for an initial period of three months with possibility of an extension. The social media page is unofficial, and has no connection to the POA. Investigo Government Solutions (IGS Secure) is seeking applicants for temporary Prison Officer vacancies at Guernsey Prison.

Prison Officers at Les Nicolles Prison (commonly known as Guernsey Prison) are currently undertaking a ‘work to rule’ and the Executive believe these temporary roles are intended to provide cover during a period of industrial action being undertaken by Prison Officers employed at the establishment.

The decision to withdraw goodwill was made collectively by Prison Officers due to long-standing concerns over pay, staff retention and recruitment, increasing workplace pressures and what members describe as a persistent lack of recognition for the essential role they perform, feeling they are the "forgotten service".

Unite the Union (the recognised Union in Guernsey) said "Their goodwill has kept the service operating, but that goodwill has now been exhausted. Prison Officers are asking the employer to demonstrate, through meaningful action rather than words alone, that it has listened to their concerns and is committed to supporting them."

As trade unionists, the POA recognise the fundamental importance of solidarity between workers. Industrial action is a legitimate means by which workers seek to protect their pay, conditions, safety, and professional standards. The effectiveness of such action can be significantly undermined when employers engage temporary labour to replace those participating in lawful industrial action.

Accordingly, the Executive strongly urges retired members not to apply for, accept, promote, or otherwise co-operate with the recruitment of temporary Prison Officers intended to cover the duties of employees engaged in industrial action at Guernsey Prison.

We ask members to stand in solidarity with our colleagues and fellow trade unionists in Guernsey who are exercising their collective right to take industrial action in pursuit of their legitimate workplace concerns.

Members who have been approached directly regarding these vacancies, or who require further advice, should contact their local union representative or the Union office.

Thank you for your continued support and solidarity.

Yours sincerely

STEVE GILLAN
General Secretary