By Caitlin Pike
NUJ members at ITV are likely to be balloted for strike action after management have refused to negotiate over reward payments for increased workloads as a result of new editing technology being installed in newsrooms across the country.
Paul McLaughlin, NUJ national broadcasting representative told Press Gazette: “We have asked ITV to get around the table and sort these matters out but unfortunately the company have refused which leaves our members no option but to pursue the matter in a way they see fit.”
NewsCutter desktop editing software has been introduced in ITV regional newsrooms including Meridian and Tyne Tees over the last 12 months. NUJ representatives have said this has led to a reduced number of ‘craft editors’ in newsrooms meaning reporters have had to deal with increased workloads. Members have requested some form of reward payment for the extra work but management have refused to negotiate on the matter.
An ITV spokeswoman said: “We are still in discussions with the NUJ and have received no formal notification of a ballot.”
Email pged@pressgazette.co.uk to point out mistakes, provide story tips or send in a letter for publication on our "Letters Page" blog