Council and unions work together on a fair deal for staff
Today (Wednesday 27 June 2012), the Leader of Shropshire Council announced that he was in a position to reduce the agreed pay reduction for council staff from the approved 2.7% down to 1.7%, taking effect from October 2012.
Shropshire Council met with unions, UNISON and GMB to discuss the proposals and to look at ways to try and mitigate the proposal’s effect upon staff and services, whilst still ensuring it achieved the extensive savings of £86million required through the Comprehensive Spending Review.
Shropshire Council Leader, Keith Barrow, welcomed the positive negotiations with the two unions:
“When we first discussed reducing staff wages last year I said that, if possible, I would endeavour to keep any future reductions as low as I possibly could. I made that promise and have kept to it. By working closely with UNISON and GMB, I am delighted that we can see the second cut reduced significantly. Our dedicated staff work hard to deliver great services to the people of Shropshire and I want to thank them for their commitment and support through what is a very difficult time.”
Chris Humphreys GMB officer for members in Shropshire Council, said:
“We are happy with the proposal and welcome the discussions with Shropshire Council. We believe that this is the best result we can hope to achieve for our members in this current climate.”
Alan James, Branch Secretary for Shropshire UNISON, said:
“I welcome this development as a positive step forward for our members at a very difficult time, and I wish to thank Keith Barrow for continuing with the spirit of the final stages of last year’s negotiations, which saw UNISON end its dispute with Shropshire Council. UNISON are mindful of the financial difficulties being faced by our members working for Shropshire Council and therefore welcome the council’s offer to bring forward a proposed pay award for the next financial year which mitigates some of the continuing losses felt by our membership.
“UNISON will continue to work together with Shropshire Council to deliver the best possible outcome for our members.”
