Union leaders warn of potential chaos as council threatens wage cuts and new contracts.
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A trade union has raised alarms over Aberdeen City Council’s controversial employment practices, particularly its threat to implement ‘fire and rehire’ strategies. GMB Scotland has initiated a ballot among workers in the city regarding potential strike action, following the council’s announcement of new contracts aimed at reducing wage expenses.
Concerns over wage cuts and working conditions
The council’s proposal includes a shift to standstill wages, which would effectively reduce the working week from 37 to 35 hours. This move is projected to save the local authority approximately £5 million.
However, the implications for workers, particularly those on lower incomes, are significant. Union leaders have expressed that the changes could result in a loss of over £1,500 annually for the lowest-paid employees, raising serious concerns about the financial stability of these workers.
Legal and ethical implications of ‘fire and rehire’
The practice of ‘fire and rehire’ involves dismissing employees only to rehire them under less favorable terms. This tactic has been criticized as a violation of workers’ rights and a breach of the Scottish Government’s ‘fair work’ guidelines. Louise Gilmour, Scotland Secretary of GMB Scotland, has formally withdrawn the union’s endorsement of Aberdeen City Council as a fair work employer, emphasizing that such practices are counterproductive to the government’s goals of establishing a Fair Work Nation.
Political responses and future actions
Political figures, including Christian Allard, co-leader of Aberdeen City Council, have stated that ‘fire and rehire’ would only be considered as a last resort. However, this assurance has not quelled the concerns of union leaders, who warn that industrial action could lead to significant disruptions in the city, including overflowing bins and halted support services for vulnerable populations. The Scottish Government has reiterated its opposition to ‘fire and rehire’ practices, aligning with its commitment to fair work standards across Scotland.
As the Labour government moves forward with its Employment Rights Bill, which aims to outlaw such practices in the UK, the situation in Aberdeen remains tense. Union leaders are calling for immediate action from the Scottish Government to address these employment threats, urging that the council’s practices reflect a broader commitment to fair treatment of workers.
