UNISON and three other unions at are fighting a 10% wage cut for 150 workers, a pay freeze for all other staff and cuts in public holidays and overtime rates.
“CSG was established at “arms length” from Glasgow City Council to obtain a tax advantage, to draw in private money and grants from charitable trusts. It has failed to live up to the promise”, said Glasgow UNISON Branch Secretary Brian Smith in a message to members.
“All the trade unions in CSG are united in their opposition to these attacks on their members’ pay and conditions. We have tried to negotiate with CSG but we have been left with no option other than to use strike action in an effort to defend ourselves.
“Staff at Culture and Sport Glasgow, many of them low paid, should not have to pay for the failures of CSG and Glasgow City Council. Ultimately the standard of service which the public will receive in their libraries, sports centres and community centres will be affected if workers’ wages and conditions are cut."
Paul McManus, Scottish organiser for BECTU said: "Our members understand that they are in this for the long haul and recognise that if they simply accept these changes then there will be nothing to stop CSG coming back for further cuts on pay and conditions."
A joint union mass meeting is to be held on 2 June to discuss future selective action aimed at high profile sporting and cultural events.
Glasgow UNISON is calling on people to support their case by sending protest emails to Bridget McConnell, CSG Chief Executive at info@csglasgow.org and to Glasgow City Councillor Liz Cameron, Chair CSG Board at liz.cameron@councillors.glasgow.gov.uk.
Messages of support to the strikers should be sent to enquiries@glasgowcityunison.co.uk
http://www.unison-scotland.org.uk/news/2010/mayjune/2605.htm
http://www.bectu.org.uk/news/811
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/scotland/glasgow_and_west/10176104.stm