Union's strike threat as council workers 'left with no choice' over pay dispute

22 April 2024 , 12:05

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Unison has said it may begin preparations for strike action (Image: PA Wire/PA Images)

Union bosses are gearing up for a potential strike as early as next week, fuelled by mounting frustration over stalled pay negotiations with the local government body Cosla.

Unison, which represents a 85,000 council workers, has slammed Cosla for apparently not learning from last year's industrial action that led to school closures. The union says staff were due a cost-of-living pay increase in April, following a claim submitted back in January, but this has not any response to the pay claim.

The pay claim saw the union ask for an above one-year inflation increase for those on the lowest wages, on top of the previously agreed plan to introduce the minimum rate to £15 per hour by 2026. They're also pushing for a 7% hike across all pay scales or a £1.60 boost to the hourly rate, depending on which is higher.. Last year's dispute saw classrooms close across various regions.

David O'Connor, Unison's local government organiser, said: "Cosla has to understand the growing anger among local government workers over how they are treated year after year in pay negotiations. It is no wonder local government workers are left feeling disappointed and frustrated when their employers haven't even bothered to respond to the pay claim."

"Without investment in the local government workforce there will be no public services Cosla must recognise local government workers for the vital services they provide and ensure they are fairly rewarded."

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Colette Hunter, the union's local government chair, said: "It would appear that Cosla has learned nothing from last year's pay dispute which resulted in school closures across Scotland. The last thing anyone wants to do is take strike action, but if Cosla continue to ignore our pay claim then we may be left with no choice."

"While strike action is always a last resort, our local government committee is currently considering all options and preparations for strike action could begin as early as next week."

Cosla has been asked for comment.

Lawrence Matheson