Scottish Water staff to be balloted on strike action

Unison said it follows Scottish Water's decision to issue a new pay structure and for offering a below-inflation pay rise

There are concerns the proposals will amount to a real-terms pay cut
Author: Kieran BrandPublished 12th Aug 2023
Last updated 12th Aug 2023

Scottish Water staff will be balloted on potential strikes next week, a union has confirmed.

Unison said the possible action follows Scottish Water's decision to issue a new pay structure and for offering a below-inflation pay rise.

The group argues it is "unacceptable" for a pay offer to be made and a new pay structure implemented without negotiation.

Unison warned the increase amounts to a real-terms pay cut – it will ballot workers from Thursday on the proposals and ask if they would be willing to strike over wages.

If staff vote in favour of action, they will then be balloted to decide on action in the autumn.

Unison Scottish Water branch secretary, Patricia McArthur, said: "This could have so easily have been avoided.

"As Scottish Water is still a public sector employer, unlike other water providers in the UK, it shouldn't be resorting to such heavy-handed management practices.

"Scottish Water must get around the table for proper talks. Any new pay structure must be fair and have the full confidence of staff. Otherwise it won't stand the test of time and the public will be short-changed."

Unison Scotland regional organiser, Emma Phillips, added: "It's imperative staff are genuinely consulted on these proposals and it takes time to get these things right.

"Scottish Water is behaving like a rogue employer. It can't just railroad things through without talking to Unison, which represents most staff.

"It's outrageous managers are trying to push for more pay while those on lower incomes will get considerably less."

Scottish Water has been contacted for comment.

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