HEART Unions week was celebrated in the Senedd today, with First Minister Eluned Morgan affirming her government’s support forf trade unions and condemning a Wrexham employer’s fire-and-rehire tactics.

Welsh Labour Senedd member for North Wales Carolyn Thomas raised the strike at ready meal factory Oscar Mayer, where 550 Unite members have staged a series of strikes since last September.

The dispute was triggered by the company’s attempt to slash pay by up to £3,000 a year by sacking its staff and re-employing them on inferior contracts.

Ms Morgan paid tribute to the workers fighting for their rights at the food manufacturer.

“We wrote expressing our concern to the employer and North Wales Minister Ken Skates will be meeting the company on February 21,” Ms Morgan said.

“I just want to make it clear that fire-and-rehire practice has no place in a modern, civilised labour market and is very much against the values of fair work and social partnership.”

The union is currently balloting its members at Oscar Mayer to extend the strike action in response to the dismissal of some workers during the industrial action.

Ms Morgan stressed that her government “stands with workers and trade unions against exploitative practices and for fair work.”

The First Minister mentioned the Westminster government’s Employment Rights Bill, saying that the legislation enhanced workers’ rights and would prevent employers sacking those who refuse to accept lower pay and worse conditions.

“Fire and rehire, that’s what we’re seeing in Oscar Mayer,” Ms Morgan told the Senedd, “and who voted against the introduction of this Bill? Nigel Farage.”