Inverclyde Council refuse workers walk out 'a last resort'

Unite shop steward Callum Best says that some of those set to walk out later this month are among of the local authority's lowest paid, who have suffered the most from the cost of living crisis.

He told the Tele strike action is a "last resort" in a bid to make COSLA, the body which represents Scotland's local authorities, and the Scottish Government come up with a better offer for those providing vital frontline services.

Unless a new deal can be secured, the refuse operators, waste workers and street cleaners will be out from next Wednesday.

Mr Best said: "We want to be clear that we do not want to go on strike. This is an absolute last resort.

"We have no choice because our members are struggling. It has been a difficult few years for everyone with the cost-of-living crisis.

"We have paid the price for 10 years of one per cent pay increases or no pay increases at all.

"But we have been absolutely overwhelmed by the support from the public and we would like to thank them.

"Last time the support was phenomenal. Our members are out there every day providing a service that people cannot do without. 

"People know the vital services we provide. I think all workers are in the same vote right now, we have all suffered from the cost of living crisis."

The Tele reported last week on the announcement by Unite, Unison and the GMB that some of their members would be taking part in co-ordinated walkouts from August 14-22.

Council leader Stephen McCabe warned of significant disruption to services and said the Scottish Government would have to take swift action to stop the walk outs going ahead.

He said that with almost 100 staff out on strike, services would be limited.

Under the deal currently on the table, COSLA  are offering a 3.2 per cent increase for a one-year period between April 1, 2024 and March 31, 2025.

Talks are continuing between unions and COSLA in a bid to settle the pay dispute.