Public and Commercial Services Union

Following our meeting with the minister on 09/12/09 the Department agreed to consider their position. That position was to offer nothing, other than their previous position of deferment of cuts until May, with nothing to compensate staff for the loss of juxtaposed allowances.

The Department wrote to PCS and offered a meeting. They also asked PCS to put forward a proposal that would attempt to resolve the dispute. We met with the Department on 15/12/09 and put forward a proposal which would involve all existing staff retaining their juxtaposed allowances on a reserved rights basis.

The Department rejected this offer. We asked them to make a counter proposal and they referred to their previous derisory offer.

It was clear that PCS were the only ones serious about attempting to settle the dispute. This is disappointing, but not surprising, from a management who have such a callous disregard for their staff.

PCS members prepare for action

Unfortunately PCS members now have no option but to take action on 19/12/09 if they wish to defend themselves from the cuts. 96% voted for strike action and PCS believe it will be one of the best supported actions ever.

PCS to ramp up campaign

The Union will now ramp up its industrial, political and media campaign in an attempt to change the Department’s position. We will also, quite unlike the Department, be looking to resolve the dispute instead of offering nothing and taking everything.