Perth and Kinross Council deny mass redundancy plans

Nov 27 2009 by Andrew Welsh, Perthshire Advertiser Friday

COUNCIL bosses yesterday denied that the axing of two senior management posts could pave the way for mass redundancies.

As part of a far-reaching bid to address a potential £35million shortfall in funding over the next four years, Perth and Kinross Council confirmed it would not be replacing its former executive director of corporate services Gavin Stevenson, who resigned in July.

The radical restructuring, which is being backed by councillors of every political hue, will also see existing corporate services staff with legal, finance, property, human resources and IT expertise being reallocated to other departments as of January 1.

The PA revealed last month that the top job was set to be axed as the local authority attempts to get to grips with the continuing economic ramifications of the recession.

Also being jettisoned is one of three existing head officer posts in the council’s education department.

Annual savings of around £200,000 are expected as a result of axing both jobs, with the power base overseen by PKC chief executive Bernadette Malone set to be controversially strengthened.

Council leader Ian Miller yesterday insisted every effort would be made to find new roles for those affected by the changes, but admitted that some individuals may be surplus to requirements.

“Further job losses are a likely outcome but we don’t envisage any compulsory redundancies,” Mr Miller declared.

“As people take retirement, we will not be looking to fill these positions unless they are a necessary and integral part of the council.

“However, redundancy will kick into place if we cannot find a suitable post for someone.”

Mr Miller said the changes had been agreed following discussions with workers’ representatives and would “streamline” the council’s management services.

“The chief executive’s service will have an enhanced role and will become a more significant structure,” he declared.

“Staff have been very supportive of the changes we are proposing. They can see the benefits to the council and are working with us.’’

Mr Miller defended the decision to shed a senior education post, leaving one chief officer in charge of early and primary schooling and the other running secondary and additional support services.

“Having a robust new management structure in place will support our staff and continue our progress towards even greater student achievement and attainment,” he maintained.