“COSLA sit on their hands they, and the Scottish government, are sleep walking towards a second year of industrial action.” said Johanna Baxter, UNISON, “No-one wants to see rubbish piling up on the streets again and schools threatening to close.”
“Work is already underway on developing a New Deal for Local Government. We will work together, through regular and meaningful engagement, to progress this, explore a new fiscal framework for councils and reform our public services.” Humza Yousaf, First Minister of Scotland
“COSLA Leaders are clear that it is in all of our interests, not least those of children, young people and families, to conclude the teachers’ pay negotiations as quickly as we can to bring back stability and certainty in our schools.” COSLA’s Resources Spokesperson, Councillor Katie Hagmann
“Only a significantly improved offer from the Scottish Government and COSLA can bring an end to this dispute.” EIS General Secretary Andrea Bradley
“Yes, money is tight, but Scottish Government has made political choices. Cuts to our core budget hit the most vulnerable in our communities the hardest and are damaging to our workforce – Scottish Government needs to consider this seriously. ” COSLA Vice President Councillor Steven Heddle
The National Islands Plan “will see a total of £8.3 million invested in critical infrastructure projects.” John Swinney, Deputy First Minister of Scotland
A fresh pay offer has been put to Scotland’s Trade Unions representing the local authority workforce.
UNISON has confirmed that strike dates in waste and recycling, schools and early years, that have already been notified to the local authorities will continue as planned during the period of consultation.
Orkney looks set to face disruption to many of its council run services this autumn and winter. Council workers, members of trade unions have rejected the 2% pay offer from their employers.
“I am delighted to be elected to the position of COSLA Vice President. It is a wonderful opportunity and a role that I am honoured to take on, on behalf of the whole of Local Government.”
