Glasgow could be left "filthy" and "untidy" for COP26
Cleansing workers are threatening strike action during the climate conference next month.
Last updated 12th Oct 2021
Clyde 1 is hearing Glasgow could be left in a "filthy" and "untidy" state next month as world leaders arrive for COP26.
Cleansing workers are threatening strike action during the climate conference because of a row over pay.
Chris Mitchell from the trade union GMB Scotland said: "We held a ballot with our members over potential industrial action regarding the latest pay offer from COSLA.
"We think it was an insult and a kick in the teeth that they can't offer us a fair pay rise.
"We were called 'covid heroes' and received applause every Thursday night during the first lockdown, but we are still not getting the recognition we deserve."
"The city will look like a complete mess"
There are suggestions that up to 1,600 cleaners and janitors across the city could be off duty while the eyes of the world are on Scotland.
Chris added: "Glasgow is already in a waste crisis and if we are going to showcase our city to the world during a climate change event then we have to treat our cleansing workers with respect.
"Otherwise the city will look like a complete mess over the next few weeks."
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"Some building have holes in the ceilings"
The GMB Scotland convenor feels workers have been left with no other option, but to take industrial action.
Chris said: "The facilities we work in are completely unacceptable because of cuts that have been made.
"Some buildings have holes in the ceilings and our members are using buckets to catch rain water.
"I don't think this paints a good picture to anyone coming into Glasgow."
A COSLA Spokesperson said: “We appreciate everything that Local Government workers have been doing, and continue to do, to support people and communities during the pandemic and as we begin to recover.
“We continue with on-going constructive negotiations.”
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