Bin workers in councils across Scotland returned to work today after the first wave of strikes by came to an end. Staff from the Unite, Unison and GMB unions walked out as part of a dispute over pay, but negotiations with Cosla and the Scottish Government failed to reach an acceptable settlement for the unions.
Action coincided with a similar strike in Edinburgh that left the streets littered with rubbish during the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. Disruption is likely to return next week - and spread to schools and nurseries - if a new offer is not accepted.
The latest offer, made by Cosla on Monday, was rejected as unions urged the local authority body to make a flat-rate pay offer as opposed to one based on a percentage increase to current wages. According to the Scottish Government, the deal included a payment of at least £1,925 for council staff, with those earning £20,000 receiving £2,000.
