Mon 24 Dec 2012
At this time of year, when people take time off for holidays and
family time and festivities, thousands of UNISON members will be working and on
call – caring for people at all stages of life in the NHS; in local councils
from social work to the roads department to home care services, libraries and
leisure centres; in public utilities like gas, electricity and water; in the
police and fire services and many more.
As a union, we are proud of our members and the vital work they do
throughout the year to provide decent public services for our communities. People
rely on the public services especially at this time of year and come to
recognise their importance.
The Christmas break can be a time of stress. Of course we always face
the impact of cold and severe weather. And in the current cold political
climate, more stress and strain is being caused by economic conditions.
Many thousands of our members have suffered three years of wage
freeze. The real wages of public service workers have dived far below the
freezing point and many are being frozen out from real pay rises for up to ten years
into the future. The pensions tax of 3% which faces many of our members adds an
extra burden. All this is as a result of the unfair and unnecessary austerity
measures being visited upon us through all levels of government.
Our pledge at this time is to fight for our vital public services
and the jobs, pay and pensions of those who deliver them – this Christmas, and
all year, every year.
UNISON Scotland wishes everyone who provides our public services
and all who benefit from them all the best for a safe and happy festive period
- whether on holiday or at work – over Christmas and the New Year.
Mike
Kirby, Scottish Secretary, UNISON
24
December 2012
ends
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