Pensions action forces new talks

by Chris Bartter

A breakthrough in negotiations between the joint unions and local government employers at UK level has led to the suspension of the UK-wide action on 25-27 April, including the Scottish strike on 26 April.

As we went to print, Scottish branches were due to meet on 24 April to hear an update on talks.

UNISON's Industrial Action committee agreed to suspend the strike action because the joint union/LGA statement provides a framework for detailed negotiations on the future of the local government pension scheme and full protection for existing scheme members.

Separate discussions are taking place in Scotland with the Scottish Executive, the SPPA and CoSLA to build on this UK position and resolve the matter here.

Matt Smith, UNISON's Scottish Secretary said; "We welcome the shift in the employer's position. There is a lot of detailed work and negotiations to be done over the coming weeks."

"The show of solidarity in the action on March 28 and the likelihood of similar support on 26 April has achieved this breakthrough.

"We trust that employers and government throughout the UK will use this time to establish protection for LGPS members that mirrors that received by other public sector workers."

Meat Hygiene

The week long threatened strike of meat inspectors across the UK kick-started the offer of talks from English local government employers and the UK government.

UNISON's Scottish Council congratulated the members of the MHS in Scotland, for their solid commitment to the action and their resistance to the threats, intimidation and smears, voiced by the MHS and the meat industry.

Mike Kirby, UNISON's Scottish Convenor said "MHS members deserve our thanks and congratulations for levering this step forward.

"Let us hope that government and employers realise that they have allowed them a breathing space. Use it well."

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