Tayside pharmacy workers could return to work despite no resolution over pay dispute

NHS Tayside pharmacy support workers, who’ve been striking over a pay dispute, could be heading back to work despite the fact a resolution still hasn’t been found.

Staff have been taking industrial action since August 19 over pay grades and what they claim was a flawed job evaluation.

However, Friday November 8 marks the end of their 12 week immunity period for striking.

Consequently, staff may have to return to work the following Monday – even though the pay-dispute will rumble on.

Unite the Union have asked the health board for an extension – with the Scottish Terms and Conditions Committee due to meet again on Monday November 11.

Gary Niblock’s one of the pharmacy workers affected, he said: “We haven’t to date heard back from NHS Tayside to actually tell us if the extension has been granted or not.

“We’re absolutely in the dark at the moment – we’re in limbo.

“The feeling is of frustration and anger and how long the process has taken.

“It’s been 12 weeks, we’ve had to be out in all sorts of weather, and we’re still no further forward.”

He added that staff are ready to go back to work on Monday if necessary: “We’re absolute professionals and our patients care is upmost and we would go back to work.

“However our members are frustrated and angry – it’s been 12 weeks and we are still no further forward.”

A spokesperson for NHS Tayside said: “STAC has informed NHS Tayside and Unite that it intends to reconsider this matter on Monday, 11 November.

“We remain in discussion with Unite regarding their request."