GPMU members have approved the terms of this years National Agreement deal between the union and BPIF following a ballot (PrintWeek, 9 March).


The motion was carried by a majority of 5,435, with 11,509 members voting in favour and 6,074 against, according to a GPMU spokesman.


"Of course we are delighted with the outcome," said Chris Patefield, leader of the BPIFs negotiating team.


After lengthy talks between the two parties, a 6.88 pay offer on the class 1 employee rate, or 3.08% pay rise, was put forward to ballot along with a series of claims, with a recommendation to accept by the GPMU executive.


The terms of this years agreement will be effective from 24 April.


Along with the wage increase, the terms of the agreement included an increase in the national sick pay scheme from 60% to 75% of the national minimum grades, the introduction of paid paternity leave, agreement on working time regulations, removal of the full cost recovery clause, and the introduction of five training days per annum.


Story by Andy Scott