Industrial Action - Statement

Scottish Water has issued the following statement as a result of the vote on potential industrial action led by members of Unison, Unite and GMB Scotland.
 
Scottish Water’s chief operating officer Peter Farrer said: “No-one benefits from industrial action. We would encourage the trade unions to rejoin negotiations so we can settle this matter amicably.
 
“Scottish Water remains committed to reaching an agreement with our unions that avoids industrial action. As a responsible employer, we want to make sure our people are paid fairly. That’s why we’ve offered a 3.4% rise, significantly above inflation, with a guaranteed £1400 minimum increase. This means those in lower salary grades receive the highest percentage increase in Scottish Water.
 
“With previous improvements to pay and conditions, this offer means Scottish Water will be spending 17% more on employee salaries than two years ago. This is in addition to reducing our company work week to 35 hours. 

“We are putting in place contingency plans to protect essential services for customers ahead of any possible industrial action by trade unions.
 
“A senior management team is looking at all areas of Scottish Water activity that may be impacted by strikes.
 
“We will do all we can to ensure customers do not experience any disruption to their water supplies and that treatment of the country’s waste water continues as usual, despite the possible industrial action."
 
“A reliable water source is vital for everyone. Maintaining public health and protecting the environment are our priorities and it is the responsible course of action for us to have contingency plans ready."
 
Customer Service General Manager Kevin Roy said: “Our priority is to ensure we continue to provide customers with the highest standard of water and waste water services.
 
“We are reviewing how our activities may be impacted by any potential strike action and we will put measures in place to minimise any disruption.
 
“We will continue to keep our customers informed as soon as further details are established.”

There has been no change to the Scottish Water bonus system, as the trade unions have suggested in the media.  Bonuses for the CEO and the whole workforce depend on out-performing business targets confirmed by regulators. All colleagues benefit from the bonus if Scottish Water performs well and this approach has not changed.