Dumfries campaign wins pull-back on cuts

A public campaign run by Dumfries and Galloway Branch to combat major plans for cuts in services and job losses by council officials, forced the council back from one fateful decision last month.

The papers that were due to be considered by the Council's Finance sub-committee, proposing a raft of closures, outsourcing and job cuts across the council's services, were withdrawn from the agenda.

This was particularly good news for Dumfries' Classroom Assistants who had been running a strong campaign against a proposal to cut 60-70 posts, involving a public petition which collected 6,000 signatures, and press adverts.

Elaine North, Classroom Assistant and UNISON steward said, "The members have thrown themselves into this campaign, and the level of support we have gathered both from colleagues, the public and from across the political spectrum has made the council pause."

The press adverts urging the public to contact their councillors prompted attacks from the Conservative leader of the council, who accused UNISON of misleading the public.

Graham Abrines, Dumfries and Galloway Branch Treasurer said, "The leader's reaction clearly shows the impact that public pressure can have on politicians. While services remain under threat, it is clear that making politicians publicly accountable works as a campaign."

headlines . top