Statement ahead of council leaders’ meeting.
Speaking ahead of a meeting of council leaders tomorrow (Friday) regarding local government pay, Cabinet Secretary for Finance and Local Government Shona Robison said:
“We absolutely recognise the importance of supporting meaningful dialogue to reach a fair pay deal and avoid industrial action.
“That is why I asked my officials to work at pace with local government officers to understand what an improved negotiating envelope may look like.
“All parties, including COSLA, trade union leaders and political group leaders have engaged constructively with that process.
“Against an extremely challenging financial landscape, the Scottish Government has identified additional funding to support COSLA to make a strong offer.
“The enhanced envelope represents the absolute limit of affordability and has required difficult decision making.
“I hope Scotland’s council leaders can agree a way forward when they meet that will help to avert strike action starting next week, with a revised offer being made to local government union members and accepted as soon as possible.”
