Unions say government craft workers earn 拢13,972 on average - 拢7,000 less than counterparts in private sector

Unions representing 40,000 local government craft workers have asked for an annual pay increase of 7.5%.

Ucatt, Unite, the GMB and the CSEU have also asked for a two-hour reduction in the working week, an increase tool and fuel allowances, and increased holiday and bereavement leave.

They also want an increase in the number of apprentices in local government.

Alan Ritchie, Ucatt general secretary, said: 鈥淪killed local government craft workers dedicate their lives to serve their local communities. They deserve to be paid fairly. The poverty rates of pay they have been forced to live on must be ended.鈥�

Ucatt said a local government craft workers salary is 拢13,972 compared with a private sector rate of 拢20,888. Last year workers got a 2.475% increase, which was below the rate of inflation.