Workers stage pay protest

The company says it aims to find a resolution to the dispute

Workers at an IT services firm in Manchester are holding a protest rally outside their workplace as part of a row over pay and conditions.

Amicus members at Fujitsu Services in Gorton are also being balloted to take strike action over the dispute.

The union says Fujitsu is breaking its long-standing union recognition and redundancy agreements.

But Fujitsu says it hopes the dispute can be resolved before strike action is necessary.

The union claims Fujitsu has rejected its claim over sick pay and equal pay.

Amicus rep Ian Allinson said: "There is overwhelming support for our pay claim from the workforce.

'Anti-union stance'

"Instead of responding positively to our proposals, the company seems to be trying to get rid of the union.

"It's a disgrace that the company is taking such an anti-union stance."

He added the workers were not militant, but just wanted a fair deal.

"People have had enough," he said.

"Many of our members aren't well paid - nearly half the workforce is in call-centres.

"Employees wanted the company to listen to them. Instead the company tried to undermine the union."

A Fujitsu spokesman said: "We are aware of the demonstration on Thursday, by some members of the Amicus trade union, outside Fujitsu Services West Gorton site in Manchester.

"We have talked extensively with Amicus regarding the issues under discussion with a view to finding a resolution."