UNISON, representing 860,000 local government workers, today rejected a three per cent pay offer by local government employers, claiming it was a third class pay offer for a workforce trying to build world class public services.
UNISON is seeking a flat rate increase of £1,750 to give a minimum wage of £11,017, or a six per cent increase, whichever is greater, .
UNISON Local Government National Officer, Malcolm Wing said:
ÒThis offer is bitterly disappointing for local government workers, particularly the 270,000 who earn less than £5 an hour.
ÒIt is a kick in the teeth, particularly given yesterdayÕs 3.6% pay offer to low paid workers in the NHS. The message seems to be that the NHS values its staff, local government does not.
ÒWe have agreed to consult our members on the 3% offer but will recommend that it be rejected. If our members reject it, there is likely to be support for industrial action as the only way to bring the employers back to the negotiating table.Ó
UNISON says local government workers are trying to deliver on the Blair GovernmentÕs call for world class public services, but low pay is creating a retention and recruitment crisis.
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