Trade Union Proposals Slammed

The leader of Fife Council has branded the Trade Union Bill an 'attack on local democracy.'

David Ross claims the proposals by the UK government will affect the local authority's relationship with trade unions and its workforce.

If passed, the legislation would curb picketing and require higher voting thresholds for ballots.

Councillor Ross said, “Fife Council has always recognised the positive contribution that trade unions and trade union members make in our workplaces.  We value the constructive relationship we have with our trade unions and we recognise their commitment, and the commitment of all our staff, to the delivery of good quality public services.
 
“I have real concerns about the Trade Union Bill which is currently being proposed by the UK Government and which would affect this Council’s relationship with our trade unions and our workforce as a whole.  I see this as an attack on local democracy and an attack on our right to manage our own affairs.
 
“We have facility time agreements negotiated and agreed by us and our trade unions to suit our own needs.  These agreements play a valuable role in the creation of good quality and responsive local services,  and in maintaining positive industrial relations within the Council.  Facility time shouldn’t be determined or controlled by central government.
 
“We are happy with the arrangements we have in place for deducting trade union membership subscriptions through our payroll.  We see this as an important part of our positive industrial relations and a cheap and easy way to support our staff.  Again, this is an administrative matter for the Council and shouldn’t be interfered with by central government.
 
“I will be asking the Council to support the campaign against this unnecessary, anti-democratic and bureaucratic Trade Union Bill.”