should we go on strike?

Question

Here at work we are not being paid i.e. we've not been paid for february yet.. some of the workers are not gonna come back to work after thursday if we're not paid should i join them?

don't live in the UK guys so no unions where I am

Answer 1

have you talked to your boss about the problem. if he didn't do anything. You should go for what you believe in, if you think that strike would help go for it

Answer 2

Three main things to consider before a strike:

1. How much are your skills valued at your job?
2. Are the people you work with feeling the same sentiment to strike?
3. Are there any laws protecting workers, or legal consequences for workers who go on strike?

If your job requires a specialized skill that is not easy to replace, meaning the employer will have to spend significantly more money interviewing, hiring and training replacements this might tip the scales in your favor. If this is true, it will offer a slight reassurance that you all won't be fired immediately. Remember it is important that your employer also understand how valuable you are to the organization. If in practice your skills are rare and important, but your employer does not understand this, they may fire you out of ignorance. So think about how important your job is, and how aware your employer is of your skills.

A strike does not work if only one person does it. Let's face it. If everyone talks strike, but tomorrow everyone, except 1 person, goes to work, that 1 person gets fired. Normally in a union, once it's agreed upon to strike, everybody strikes. But since you don't have that, someone needs to organize all the guys in the office and chisel out your course of action. To strike or not to strike? Make sure you have people's agreement and commitment. Chances are, they're as upset about not getting paid as you are, but aren't sure how to resolve the issue. You can propose this one possible solution.

Since all countries have different laws. Are there any laws protecting workers and the worker's rights? Are there any legal consequences that would result from workers striking? If there are legal protection for workers who are not paid, perhaps you can bring about a legal action. And if there are legal consequences (like fines or jail time) to striking, that should be weighed in.

Answer 3

That is not a strike.

A strike is a proper LEGAL withdrawal of labour after a vote etc.

This sounds like it would be an unlawful strike and leave you open to dismisal. You might lose out on benefits or redundancy payments.

are you in a union? if so speak to them.
If not speak to your local citizens advice bureau. You can get a form at job centres to take your employer to court over unpaid wages, but i'd seek advice asap.

I wouldn't lots of small/medium enterprises go through cash flow problems, sure it must be a pain in the ar$e but you need a job. I'd look to find a new job through proper means over the next few months.

Answer 4

If they haven't paid you since before Feb then going on strike will not make them cough up any sooner. I'd start looking for another job, and sign on or go to social welfare, how are you supposed to live and support yourself, (and family)! Are you in the EU? You must have some sort of employee protection within the EU

Answer 5

I might go instead to your local labor ministry and file a claim for unpaid wages.

Whether you strike or not seems immaterial since the employer isn't paying you and doesn't seem likely to.

Answer 6

If you have a good union to back you.

Answer 7

obviously the company is in trouble how are they communicating information to you about this can they get out of this with your help and look to refund you later .
If they are not giving you the information get out now.

Answer 8

um...............yes