THE leader of Inverclyde Council says strike action taken by care workers could have a 'significant impact' on some of the area's most vulnerable people. 

Councillor Stephen McCabe spoke to the Telegraph following the news that GMB Scotland union members are being balloted in a dispute over pay. 

Earlier this month, council leaders across Scotland learned that home care and residential care workers would get the chance to vote on the potential for strike action after no pay offer was received, despite assurances that one was imminent. 

Mr McCabe said if the union and its members do decide to strike, people who need some of the highest levels of support in communities across Inverclyde will be adversely affected. 

He said: "Taking care workers out on strike could have a significant impact on our ability to deliver services to some of the most vulnerable people in our community.

"It won't just be challenging for the council but challenging for people the council cares for.

"In previous years, we've had strikes in schools and in refuse collection and they have absolutely impacted on people and families. 

"To take every home care and residential worker out on strike would make it very challenging for us to maintain the level of care we're able to provide."

Councillor McCabe said he 'understands the frustration' of trade unions but said the financial crisis facing councils across Scotland will make it very difficult for the local authority to meet pay demands. 

He added: "Councils are facing a very challenging financial climate 

"On April 26, council leaders agreed a financial package to allow an offers to be made to SJC trade union which includes certain categories of employees outwith teachers. 

"Discussions have been taking place between Cosla and the unions to work out best offer within that financial package. 

"Trade unions are frustrated that an offer has not yet been made and I can understand that frustration. 

"I do expect that due to financial constraints, the offer may not meet the union's expectations, and again, I can understand that. 

"They believe their members are entitled to more than we can afford to offer them."

GMB Scotland members working in council social care were due to receive ballot papers this week, and the vote will close on June 19.