Date: Monday 1 February 2010

UNISON signs recognition deal with Police Service Authority

Scotland’s public service union, UNISON will today (Monday) sign a recognition agreement with the Scottish Police Services Authority (SPSA), and fellow trade union, Unite, which will confirm them as the unions recognised to represent police staff working for the Authority.

UNISON is the largest union representing police staff in Scotland and has around 550 members currently covered by this agreement across Scotland.

Kenny Laing - Chair of UNISON’s SPSA Sub-Group said:

“I am delighted that this agreement has been drawn up and signed. At a time when there is much work to be done in job evaluation, harmonising conditions and with various modernisation agendas, it is clearly very important that UNISON is able to represent and negotiate with the SPSA as effectively as possible. That is even more important as we face very difficult times for public sector finances.

“I look forward to continuing to work hard, alongside my other UNISON stewards, for the members in this new formal consultation process.”

UNISON has had good relations with this new employer and the agreed structure will enable issues to be addressed in an agreed procedure by both employer and union.

Jo Brigham, SPSA Interim Chief Executive said:

“The establishment of this agreement between SPSA, UNISON and Unite is a very positive step. Although we have been consulting informally with the unions, the agreement will allow us to move forward with a recognised and consistent process. This will strengthen SPSA’s working relationship with the unions and allow us to better understand and communicate with one another. We look forward to our first formal meeting in February.”

Peter Veldon, UNISON’s regional officer for Police staffs said

“It is important that UNISON’s key role within other Police staffs across Scotland, is now replicated in this new authority. There is much to be done in the next few months and membership of UNISON is essential to ensure that staff views are considered in all parts of SPSA and to ensure the best possible results for employees during the negotiations.”

ENDS

For Further Information Please Contact:

Kenny Laing (Chair of UNISON SPSA Sub-Group) 07748 304275
Peter Veldon (UNISON Regional Organiser) 07904 342285
Chris Bartter (Communications Officer) 07715 583 729(m)

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