Council strike not "ruled out"

Eitan Grant - Eitan Grant • Published 4 Mar 2009 12:30

Thousands of Renfrewshire Council workers could be fired then rehired with new job conditions - if a controversial scheme is rolled out.

Union bosses are vowing to avoid the move which could affect 7000 employees and say they will take action if crunch talks break down.

A 90-day consultation period has now begun after both sides failed to come to an agreement during the last eight months of negotiations.

Secretary of the Renfrewshire Council branch of UNISON Mark Ferguson who represents 4,000 council workers said that industrial action would not be ruled out.

He added: 'UNISON are committed to a package of terms and conditions that are non-discriminatory and would seek to resolve any difficulties through negotiation.

'We are committed to reaching an agreement on terms and conditions in the same manner as was reached on pay and grading in 2006.'

A council spokesperson said: 'We believe the proposals strike a balance by promoting a modern, flexible approach delivering services to suit our customers at the times they want and at the times they need them.

'They also provide greater opportunities for flexible working which can improve both the delivery and availability of our services.

'We very much hope the unions and our employees will back these proposals.

'There is a clear commitment from Renfrewshire Council and the trade unions to continue discussions and all parties are aiming to reach an agreed outcome. But because of the need to keep modernising and improving our services, we do need to retain all options for implementing change.

'Overall, our main aims are to improve services and the terms and conditions for our staff.

'If agreement can"t be reached at the end of the 90 day consultation period, a report will be brought back to the Council for further consideration before any decision is implemented.

'The proposals to modernise terms and conditions is the latest stage of Renfrewshire Council"s programme to introduce equality and fairness of terms and conditions across its workforce.

'Key elements of the proposals include standardising annual leave, extending access to flexible working, and recognising long service with an additional two days annual leave bringing that total to 30 days. Interest free loans for travel passes will also be introduced.'

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This article appeared in The Gazette 04 Mar 09

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