Aberdeenshire UNISON welcomes a living wage for council workers
(16/11/12) Aberdeenshire UNISON has welcomed the council's decision to pay the Scottish living wage to around 1,500 of its lowest paid workers.
The council had said it would introduce a living wage as part of its changes to terms and conditions but UNISON had called on the council to pay a living wage to its lowest paid workers without delay.
Inez Teece, branch secretary said, "We are delighted that the council has listened to us and has agreed to introduce a living wage as soon as possible.
"With the cost of basics like food and fuel rising, this will be a godsend to our lowest paid workers. Although it won't be in pay packets till into the New Year, it will still be a boost with Christmas coming up."
Kate Ramsden, branch chair added, "This is good news for these workers. Council staff have had a year on year pay freeze, which is a pay cut in real terms, and whilst this affects us all, it hits the lowest paid particularly hard. A living wage will go some way to changing that.
"When you think that almost 60% of children who live in poverty have at least one parent in work, you can see how important the living wage is."
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