AN MP has had her offer to mediate an ongoing bin strike dispute rejected. 

The offer by Lewes MP Maria Caulfield to mediate the strike in Wealden District was accepted by GMB Union but rejected by Biffa management.

Ms Caulfield offered to chair a meeting, either in Westminster or locally, with both sides to try to find a resolution. Biffa said they do not feel it would be appropriate or beneficial.

Ms Caulfield said: “I am extremely disappointed that Biffa does not want to return to the negotiating table with myself as an impartial chair to facilitate a meeting.

“I have offered to clear my diary and host a meeting in Westminster or in the constituency on any day this week, and despite the GMB accepting this, Biffa do not want to continue to negotiate.

“Residents in Wealden District, including those in Polegate, East Dean, Alfriston and the surrounding villages that I represent, are fed up of this bin strike and want both sides to find a solution as soon as possible. 

“For the good of local people I have offered to step in and to mediate in the dispute, and I would urge Biffa to continue discussions aimed at ending the dispute.

“I would like to thank Wealden District Council for doing what they can to support residents during this time, including setting up waste drop off points and making sure that those elderly and vulnerable people who have assisted waste collection are being supported.

“My offer to Biffa and the GMB is still open should they want help to resolve the bin strike.”

Industrial action by the GMB union began on April 25 amid an ongoing dispute with Wealden District Council and Biffa over pay.

Wealden council confirmed it had been notified by Biffa that the union intends to extend strike action up until June 25.

The council said Biffa has “made several improved offers to end this strike” and accused the GMB union of making “little movement on pay demands.”

A spokesman for Sussex GMB said: “We have now extended our strike action until June 25.

“If Biffa wants to come back to the negotiating table, we are here waiting for them to settle the dispute.”

A Biffa spokesman said: "The MP’s offer of support is appreciated, however we have already entered into a conciliation process with ACAS which resulted in a constructive day of negotiations. 

"The conciliation process resulted in an improved offer of a two-year deal, including a significant above-inflation rise of 17% this year, and a minimum of 7% next year, as well as a £600 cash lump sum, to be consolidated into the pay rate next year. The deal would bring parity with the other two councils in the East Sussex contract.   

“The offer was, unfortunately, subsequently rejected by the members of the GMB. We continue to work hard to minimise the disruption to service."