School safety risk denied
Published 25 Nov 2011 09:30
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FEARS that changes to the council's school janitorial service has caused a safety risk have been rubbished by the local authority.
As reported in the Gazette, janitors at schools across Renfrewshire could strike over the busy Christmas period in a dispute over working conditions and "unfair treatment".
UNISON, which represents the janitors, says the outsourcing of janitorial services is putting the safety of children at risk.
Members are also unhappy at working extra hours at evenings and weekends without being paid.
However, the local authority denied there is any increased safety concerns, and said the new system is necessary to improve efficiency.
A Renfrewshire Council spokesman said: "The janitorial service in schools has been reviewed to improve efficiency, reduce costs and provide an improved service. The new approach was introduced after lengthy negotiation with the trade unions and employees and was supported by 78 per cent of trade union members in a ballot. The agreement included a negotiated buyout package for all janitors based on the previous year's earnings.
"Every effort has been made to continue dialogue and resolve any issues raised. It's disappointing that Unison has taken this course of action at this stage.
"The implementation of the new service has not resulted in any increased risk of safety or security concerns. The role of the janitors has been enhanced to ensure that this is a key element of the job role.
"We believe that further discussions and negotiation can resolve any issues on the way the changes are being taken forwarded."
Mark Ferguson, Unison Renfrewshire local authority branch secretary, said: "We understand that this action will impact on parents and pupils in the lead-up to the festive period, but the employer has left us with no option.
"We expect members to vote overwhelmingly for action in the formal ballot."
This article appeared in The Gazette 23 Nov 11
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