Local government pay talks set to continue, says UNISON

Following a meeting  (Thursday) with COLSA and other unions representing council staff about a Scottish local government pay offer for this year, it has been agreed that talks are to continue next week.

UNISON local government committee chair Colette Hunter said: “The pay talks with COSLA opened today. But while there were constructive discussions, the offer on the table wasn’t enough and the two sides are a long way apart.

“Talks will happen again next week. UNISON submitted its pay claim at the beginning of the year, and no one wants a repeat of last year’s strikes.”

UNISON local government lead David O’Connor said: “Everyone knows that COSLA is operating in a challenging financial context. But it’s disappointing that it won’t join with unions in calling on the Scottish government to provide additional funding. The union is doing everything it can to find a resolution.”