Angry council workers strike for better pay

Aug 15 2008 by Les Stewart, Perthshire Advertiser Friday

ALMOST 1500 council workers are expected to strike next Wednesday for a better pay offer.

Unison, the largest local authority union, will be joined by GMB and Unite members.

The 24-hour stoppage will effect a range of Perth and Kinross Council services, including education, roads, grounds maintenance, social work, catering and cleaning.

A council spokesman yesterday played down the possible effects but warned that all local authority schools, nurseries and after-school clubs would shut down for the day.

A spokesman for Unison said: “Our members are angry that the employers want to lock them into 2.5 per cent. increases for the next three years, while inflation is still rising and is set to continue.

“Local government workers are amongst the lowest paid in the public sector.”

She pointed out that Perth and Kinross saved £3.162 million last year through efficiencies delivered by their members. They also have £10.197 million in unallocated reserves.

“It’s time for members to share in the savings,” added the spokeswoman.

The council spokeswoman said: “Whilst our main priority will be to maintain the running of essential services on the day, the industrial action will involve employees across the council and there may be some disruption to services. All council schools, nurseries and after-school clubs will be closed and will re-open on Thursday, August 21. All schools lets on August 20 will also be cancelled.

See ww.pkc.gov.uk for updates.