LOCAL GOVERNMENT PAY OFFER – UNION REACTION

Unions* representing 1.3m local government workers, today (6 April) expressed their bitter disappointment at the 0.5% pay offer by Local Government Employers.

Heather Wakefield, UNISON Head of Local Government, said:

“I am bitterly disappointed and surprised at the offer, we know that most Local authorities have budgeted for an increase of between 1.5 and 2%.

“Times are tough, but this offer of 0.5% will make it even harder for local government workers, who are already struggling to make ends meet.

“Even though times are tough the Employers should look closely at other pay rates in the public sector, or they risk losing essential staff and jeopardising services.”

The unions will be meeting tomorrow to formulate their response to the Employers.

* UNISON, Unite, GMB.

Notes to Editors

The offer covers all grades of workers in local government in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, including school meals workers, social workers, care workers, administrators, cleaners, binmen and street cleaners, teaching assistants, parks and leisure staff and librarians.

In March 2009 ACAS awarded an additional 0.3% to the 2008/2009 pay award bringing it to a total of 2.75% on all pay points. An extra £100 had already been agreed for the lowest paid.