GMB Scotland launches strike ballot at Scottish Water as talks falter

Workers at Scottish Water will vote on industrial action after pay talks collapsed.

GMB Scotland said members will be balloted after an offer of 3.4% was overwhelmingly rejected in informal consultation.

Meanwhile, the union accuses the water company of misrepresenting the terms of the offer and risking the trust of staff.

The three-week ballot will open on Monday just over a year after a rolling programme of industrial action threatened to disrupt emergency repairs, testing and maintenance.

Claire Greer, GMB Scotland organiser in Scottish Water, said it was disappointing to be in dispute with management so soon after that action.

She said: “We had hoped the company had understood the need for trust and transparency in industrial relations.

“Unfortunately, that does not appear to be the case.

“The offer made to our members is too low and it is no surprise that it has been so overwhelmingly rejected.

“However, it is also disappointing that Scottish Water’s communications with staff misrepresent the offer on the table and seem designed to mislead.

"The terms could not be clearer and, despite the attempts to confuse workers, our members know what is on the table and know it is not nearly enough."

ENDS