Dunnes Stores staff balloted to strike over alleged bullying by management

STAFF at one of Cork’s biggest supermarkets have been balloted for strike action in a row over alleged bullying and harassment by management.

The result of the ballot of up to 100 workers at Dunnes Stores in Ballyvolane is expected to be known later today.

Pending the outcome, the store could face industrial action — probably in the form of a 24-hour work stoppage — which, if sanctioned, could cost Dunnes millions over the lucrative Christmas shopping period.

SIPTU, which represents the workers, said it would decide on the form of industrial action, and on its timing, after the result is known.

SIPTU official Eddie Mullins said there have been a number of allegations of bullying and harassment by management of individuals working on the shop floor.

A number of staff working in the supermarket and drapery sections are affected, he said.

He said he has been trying to raise the issue with Dunnes management both locally and in Dublin since last April.

“I have written several letters to management trying to highlight this issue,” he said.

“We’ve tried to meet with local management. They won’t meet with us.

“We’ve tried to meet with senior management. They haven’t come back to us.

“All we want to do is highlight the issue to resolve it.

“It is very frustrating that we can’t even get a meeting to discuss this.

“Dunnes management have put their head in the sand on this issue.”

The Ballyvolane branch of Dunnes Stores on the city’s northside is one of the city’s busiest Dunnes’ outlets.

It operates a 24-hour supermarket and grocery section, except at weekends, and a late-night drapery section.

Mr Mullins said the union is still willing to meet with management to discuss the issues in the hope of averting strike action.

A spokesperson for Dunnes Stores said the company does not comment on human resources issues.