| The action forms part of a fresh wave of industrial action involving Unison branches throughout Scotland over the next six weeks and builds the momentum of the Scotland-wide strikes since they began in May.
Dundee City Council is being forced to close six out of its eight child and family centres during the three-day walkout tomorrow, Thursday and Friday.
The previous strike last month hit 2400 children, but this latest boycott is expected to cause less disruption with many of the city council nurseries closed due to the school holidays.
Nursery nurses embroiled in the national dispute over pay and conditions have not had their pay reviewed for 15 years. They have taken on additional duties and responsibilities they say are not reflected in their salaries.
The nurses currently earn around £13,000 a year, but Unison maintains they should have their salaries increased to £17,000.
Although the dispute is being handled nationally through the Convention of Local Authorities (Cosla) it is possible a settlement could be reached locally, which Unison’s Dundee branch secretary Rory Malone hopes will be the case.
“The level of support is stronger than ever. We are putting a clear message across that until they make a reasonable offer we will continue with strike action,” he said.
“Local level discussions are going well and Dundee City Council is eager to settle this dispute.
“I am hoping we can settle locally within the next few weeks and Dundee could well be a benchmark for the rest of Scotland.”
Matt Smith, Unison Scottish Secretary, said, “The first wave of action has demonstrated that the nursery nurses are dedicated, hardworking and conscientious professionals.
“But they will pursue their re-grading claim until they gain recognition for their professional status and secure fair pay”.
“Unison has been overwhelmed by the public support for nursery nurses. It’s a shame Cosla is failing to recognise this and moving to end the dispute.” |
