The massive demonstrations in Belfast, Glasgow and London once again showed the latent strength of our trade unions, particularly those who organise in the public services. looking ahead, it's important that momentum is maintained and focused on ending the pay freeze - which after three years is damaging the living standards of workers in local government in particular, where most employers have even refused to implement the Con Dem concession of a £250 rise for those earning under £21,000. Last week GMB, UNISON and Unite submitted a claim for a ‘substantial flat rate increase’ and it’s about time the populist rhetoric about a general strike is put to the test by at least delivering an industrial campaign to secure a pay rise in real terms during 2013:
http://www.guardian.co.uk/society/2012/oct/21/unions-local-government-pay-freeze
The NJC pay claim for 2013/14 (England, Wales & Northern Ireland) can be read here:
http://www.unison.org.uk/acrobat/B6085.pdf and the SJC (for Scotland) here
http://www.unison-scotland.org.uk/localgovt/pay2012/index.html#1
