Glasgow equal pay talks resume after successful strike

Equal pay talks have resumed in Glasgow after this week’s successful strike action by UNISON and GMB members in Scotland’s second city.

More than 8,000 union members – overwhelmingly low paid women –  took strike action on Tuesday and Wednesday, with 10,000 marching to a rally outside the city hall on the first day of the strike.

There, UNISON assistant general secretary Christina McAnea told them: “Today, our whole union stands with Glasgow.

“Together, we have taken the fight to the courts and to the streets. Councillors have come and gone, but our demands for equal pay have remained the same.

“The dedication to the cause of UNISON members has been incredible, and it’s been matched by the incredible strength shown by those taking action today.”

The strike followed frustration over the council’s failure to negotiate a settlement to more than 12,000 equal pay claims going back to 2006 and fought all the way to the Scotland’s highest court, the Court of Session, at the turn of the year.

‘When the strike is over, the solidarity remains’. A film of the action, produced by Polifilm.co.uk for the STUC.

Glasgow City UNISON thanked members for being involved in a “great and historic” two days.

“The strikers were marvellous, picket lines solid and successful, the march and rally incredible and the speeches some of the best ever on a strike day.

“Our two-day strike has resonated with those fighting for equal pay, social justice and equality well beyond Scotland.”

The council and unions met after the strike for a discussion that was described as both “positive” and “constructive”, with talks set to continue.

UNISON Scotland regional organiser welcomed the fact that the council broke its “three weeks of radio silence” to restart negotiations.

“No-one wants a repetition of what has happened this week,” she added. “Tuesday afternoon’s rally in George Square was amazing, emotional and powerful – but we don’t want to repeat it.

“These workers have waited a long time to take such powerful action, but they don’t want to do it again, even though it was an important and historical day. It’s time now for the council to roll up its sleeves and get down to work.”

Find out more about UNISON and equal pay

The issues behind the strike: Thousands of Glasgow women set to strike for equal pay (16 October 2018)

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