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(Alliance News) - A strike by journalists at newspaper owner Reach PLC planned for Friday has been postponed after their union agreed to enter into immediate negotiations.
Members of the National Union of Journalists at Reach, including the Daily Mirror, Daily Express and Manchester Evening News, had voted to walk out on Friday.
On Thursday evening the NUJ accepted a proposal by the company to enter into immediate negotiations, which will be overseen by Acas, the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service.
The union said the decision to postpone the one-day strike was agreed by Reach chapel representatives from across England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland, and if the negotiations do not reach a successful conclusion a walkout planned for Wednesday will go ahead.
The members also agreed to strike on September 14 and 15, with the union saying they voted by 79% in favour of strikes and 88% for other forms of industrial action, on a turnout of 70%.
General Secretary Michelle Stanistreet said on Thursday evening: "The NUJ served industrial action because of the company's failure to engage in meaningful negotiations with the NUJ.
"The pay offer by the company was unacceptable.
"The overwhelming vote for industrial action reflected the strong views of our members.
"We welcome the invitation to talks and both sides will enter into the process of negotiations in good faith and with a sense of urgency.
"The NUJ is committed to achieving a fair outcome."
The company has offered a pay rise of 3%, with a minimum of GBP750, the union has said.
A Reach spokesperson said: "We are pleased to report that the NUJ have accepted our offer to meet with Acas for further talks, in hope of a resolution.
"This means that the industrial action planned for Friday August 26 has been postponed while we plan to meet with the NUJ at the earliest opportunity.
"This is a positive and significant step in finding a way forward for everyone."
By Andrew Quinn, PA
source: PA
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