Paycuts in Birmingham

12.07.10

Birmingham City Council staff, who only 2 years ago had new contracts of employment forced upon them resulting in a pay cut for many of those employees, now face the threat of dismissal if they do not agree to a further cut in pay.

The council have informed trade unions of there intention to remove allowances from pay which are part of a national agreement resulting in cuts of pay of up to 1/3 for some of the lowest paid employees of the council.

Roger Jenkins, GMB Regional Organiser said: “Birmingham CityCouncil has entered into 90 days consultation with unions even though the council cabinet has already made the decision to significantly cut the pay for the majority of its employees.

GMB members have already been told by the government that they must endure a pay freeze this year and now on top of this Birmingham City Council have informed them they will receive a pay cut of up to a 1/3 of their salary.

The proposed consultation with the council is a farce as the decisions have already been made. This affects all front line service staff and will have a devastating affects on services for the people of Birmingham. GMB will not stand by and allow our members to be treated in this disgraceful way.”

Brian Strutton GMB National Secretary for Public Services added "Birmingham City Council has the reputation of being the worst council employer in the land and here they go again bullying their staff to take pay cuts. GMB says 'Back off Birmingham”.