Library users in Angus could face disruption if staff vote to take strike action amid a dispute over new opening hours.
Changes approved by councillors could see some staff required to relocate away from their home base or have their working hours reduced, Unison says.
A report put to Angus Council earlier this month set out a number of proposals as part of an overall transformation programme of AngusAlive – the trust that delivers council-run leisure and culture services.
It would mean all libraries in Angus being open for 31 hours per week, with different opening times across the seven facilities.
What issues do staff have with the changes?
Unison has urged the council to press pause on the changes.
The trade union will open a ballot on whether staff should walk out over the proposals on November 30.
Branch secretary Chris Boyle says members have told him the changes are not fit for purpose.
He said: “There has been a lack of information provided to support these proposals or to convince us that these changes are justified.
“Our members will have their pay cut and their hours of work changed. Some staff may be expected to travel to a different work location incurring additional travel costs.
“That’s simply not acceptable during a cost of living crisis – these changes will also affect pensions.”
What does AngusAlive say?
A spokesperson for AngusAlive says the organisation has seen “significant changes in its operating environment” since the coronavirus crisis.
This, it says, includes lower footfall, inflation making goods and services more expensive and rising energy costs.
The trust says this – and the need for responsible financial management – means a number of difficult proposals are necessary.
The spokesperson added: “The charity is legally required to operate within the financial envelope available to it.
‘Challenging period’
“A detailed review of library opening hours has therefore been undertaken using a variety of library and access service data sources and employee feedback.
“The proposal to increase current library opening hours was approved by elected members at the Angus Council meeting on November 3 and is subject to the outcome of a formal consultation process with information advisors, which is now in progress.
“We are committed to continued open dialogue with Unison and other trade unions throughout this challenging period.”
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