Driving examiners in Kirkcaldy are striking over claims that changes to their working conditions could make the roads less safe.
PCS members were outside the town’s driving test centre in Randolph Place this morning in protest at changes proposed by the Driving and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA).
Campaigners claim that the agency is wanting to increase their working hours, which would lead to more drivers sitting their tests in darkness.
The union also claims that the DVSA is sitting on funds that could be used to employ a further 350 staff members.
Today’s action, which is being replicated at centres across the country, is causing disruption to some tests and follows on from two days of industrial action by PCS members last month.
DVSA chief executive, Paul Satoor, said: “Staff signed up to a new standard employment contract in April 2014 in exchange for a lump-sum payment and a 3 year pay deal. This was agreed with the trade unions, and applies to all staff in the Department for Transport and motoring agencies. The pay deal included transitional arrangements that came to an end on 1 November 2015.
“It is disappointing that the trade unions have now chosen to oppose the contract they agreed in 2014.
“We are doing everything we can to minimise any disruption to customers and we apologise for any inconvenience.”
“We remain open to negotiations and have offered to hold further discussions with the unions.
“The new contract meets all relevant legislation and we are very clear that there will be no negative impact on road safety.”