Bin workers in councils across Scotland returned to work today after the first wave of strikes by came to an end. Staff from the Unite, Unison and GMB unions walked out as part of a dispute over pay, but negotiations with Cosla and the Scottish Government failed to reach an acceptable settlement for the unions.
Action coincided with a similar strike in Edinburgh that left the streets littered with rubbish during the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. Disruption is likely to return next week - and spread to schools and nurseries - if a new offer is not accepted.
The latest offer, made by Cosla on Monday, was rejected as unions urged the local authority body to make a flat-rate pay offer as opposed to one based on a percentage increase to current wages. According to the Scottish Government, the deal included a payment of at least £1,925 for council staff, with those earning £20,000 receiving £2,000.
But Unite said the payment could be as low as £989 for some employees, with 85 per cent receiving between £1,925 and £2,000, and any payment would not be recurring. First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has said all options in making more funding available amid the strikes have been "exhausted".
With the latest offer being turned down, waste workers look set to be joined by school support staff, including cleaners, caterers, janitors and pupil support assistants in action set to take place next week. Hundreds of schools will close as a result of the action across the country for three days.
On Monday Unite industrial officer Wendy Dunsmore warned that a “ winter of discontent ” lies ahead if the dispute is not resolved.
She said: “We are absolutely resolute that this is going to be a winter of discontent and it will escalate, but we are hoping against all hope that the Scottish Government and Cosla will see sense and get back round the table with a proper rise for the lowest paid within local authorities.
“Public Health Scotland previously warned the build-up of waste could become a risk to human health, and told councils that “decontamination of public areas where bins have overflowed may be required”.
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