Scottish Local Government Workers Vote Heavily For Strike Action

Scottish local Government craftworkers have voted overwhelmingly for strike action.

The workers, members of construction union UCATT, voted by 67.9 per cent to 32.1 per cent in favour of strike action. An even greater majority of members voted in favour of action short of a strike.

The dispute concerns the below inflation pay offer of 2.45 per cent that local government craftworkers received in 2007. The dispute has become more entrenched as local government bosses have refused to negotiate on other issues in the original pay claim including a reduction in the working week.”

Harry Frew, UCATT Scotland Regional secretary, said: “UCATT workers have overwhelmingly voted for strike action because of the appalling manner in which they have been treated by local government bosses. Hard working cratfworkers should not be forced into poverty through low pay.”

The next stage in the dispute will see the joint trade unions, led by UCATT meet and decide on exactly what form of industrial action will be taken.

Mr Frew, added: “Given the strength of feeling among my members I hope that local government bosses will now return to the negotiating table.”

For Further information contact Barckley Sumner on 0780 2329235