Public service workers reject 5.5% pay offer

Unions say members will now consider strike action

Public service workers have rejected a new pay offer from government.

Members of Prospect and Unite will now be consulted on possible strike action after turning down the 5.5 per cent increase.

The unions say the decision sends a clear message that its members have had enough of what they claim are ‘meaningless discussions’ and ‘insufficient’ negotiations.

Ninety-one per cent of Unite’s balloted members rejected the proposal – this compared to 77 per cent of those represented by Prospect.

A consultative ballot will now determine whether members want to take industrial action in the future.

Debbie Halsall, regional officer for Unite, said: “We made it clear during the ballot process that if the offer made was rejected by our members then we would subsequently seek their views on taking industrial action in furtherance of securing a better settlement whilst at the same time requesting further talks with the employer in order to ascertain an improved offer.”

An initial offer of five per cent was discounted before the 5.5 per cent was offered.

“Below inflation pay increases year after year are not acceptable. Staff shortages, low morale and a slow haemorrhage of staff leaving to seek better pay, and terms and conditions elsewhere is adding to the problem. It is unacceptable for this position to continue." Unite and Prospect

Mick Hewer is the negotiations officer for Prospect: