Students are threatened with massive inconveniences this week as Royal Mail workers vote for continued postal strikes.
Following similar action in August and September the Communication Workers Union (CWU) asserts that the Royal Mail has failed to deliver to employees the standards it promised in 2007, after the last national strike.
So far work stoppages have remained localised, however the CWU announced on Thursday that a national poll has seen workers vote in an overwhelming 76% majority for national action, mirroring the events of two years ago.
Severe disruptions to the delivery of local and national post, flowers and online orders are expected to be seen across Bristol as three strikes are planned over the next seven days.
Among those worst affected will inevitably be the city’s students at a time when demands for textbooks and resources for the coming year are inundating the postal service.
Royal Mail warns customers in the South West to “expect delays of three to four days”.
Managing Director Mark Higson stated last week that “the company will be focusing on delivering excellent customer service in the vitally important run-up to Christmas” claiming that major efficiency changes are necessary.
The drive for increased effectiveness in the Post Office -although motivated by a desire to improve things for the public -has alienated the workers with rises in redundancy and controversy over pensions.
While the Christmas post may run on time, their current strike action is both debilitating and frustrating to the student population.
Students rely on the mail more than ever, for academic resources, forms, bills and other correspondence, some of which must legally be returned on time.
Should these papers not be received, students can be fined up to £100 and face a court appearance.
Staff at the local council office told Epigram an abnormal number of reminders had been dispatched as students’ electoral register forms failed to reach them.
Problems with the post come at a time when young people are still seething over lost student loans, increased energy prices and the possibility of an increase in tuition fees.
As resentment over these issues rises, the student population asks “What will they throw at us next?”
GRACE EDMUNDS
19/10/09
