Care worker action escalates in Glasgow

Action escalates in Glasgow

Glasgow Unison members

The Glasgow care workers strike action is growing stronger and more solid. After taking two 48-hour strikes in January nearly 400 Unison members involved completed a 72-hour strike over the Valentine’s weekend.

At a mass meeting on 16 February workers unanimously voted to escalate their action and intend to take a further three 72-hour strikes starting in March.

The mood of the meeting was one of anger and determination. Strikers have been encouraged by the many letters of support they have received.

They feel that by clearly stating their intention to strike for a further three weekends they will send a message to management that they intend to fight this battle to a finish.

The Director of Social Work had attempted to by-pass the union by threatening to put all workers who did not sign up to attacks on terms and conditions on 45-day notice of termination of their contracts.

These attacks include pay cuts for more than 300 of the just over 500 staff. Workers have been moved onto 12-hour shifts from eight hours previously.

Pressure is growing on the Labour leadership of Glasgow city council. Glasgow trades council has written to all councillors accusing the council of anti-trade union tactics.

They have called for negotiations with Unison to ensure there are no cuts to the living standards of the workers.

Messages of support should be sent to [email protected] Donations to the strike fund should be made out to Unison, Glasgow City Branch, 84 Bell Street, Glasgow G1 1LQ