Glasgow Tunnel Workers Back Strikes Threatening Traffic Gridlock

Strategic Insights -

Council workers controlling one of Scotland's busiest roads, the Clyde Tunnel, have overwhelmingly backed industrial action, risking traffic congestion for over 60,000 drivers a day. The union, GMB Scotland, announced the vote after staff rejected a 3% pay offer from Cosla, representing local authorities. The GMB Scotland members, who monitor cameras, control ventilation, and respond to emergencies, are seeking a £1 an hour pay increase or 6.5%.

Key Takeaways:

  • 100% of GMB Scotland members voting in the formal ballot at the Clyde Tunnel backed strike action.
  • The tunnel workers are the first to vote as part of a strategic campaign of industrial action to secure an improved offer for council staff.
  • Keir Greenaway, GMB Scotland senior organiser in public services, urged the Scottish Government to engage with Cosla and unions to resolve the dispute.
  • Council workers in Scotland have rejected a 3% pay offer from Cosla, with GMB Scotland members voting to strike in support of a £1 an hour pay increase or 6.5%.
  • The Scottish Government's pay policy, which aligned with the 3% offer, has been criticized by unions for not providing sufficiently high wage increases.
  • GMB Scotland plans strategic action, starting with the Clyde Tunnel, to support its pay claim.
  • The union will notify Glasgow City Council of the result of the formal vote on strike action and give two weeks' notice of strikes.

Statistics:

  • 100% of GMB Scotland members voting in the formal ballot supported strike action.
  • 96% of GMB Scotland members in councils backed walkouts if Cosla did not improve the 3% offer.
  • 60,000 drivers a day are at risk of traffic congestion if the Clyde Tunnel is forced to close due to strikes.
  • £1 an hour pay increase or 6.5% is the pay increase sought by GMB Scotland members.
  • 3% is the pay offer rejected by council workers in Scotland.

Sources:

  • GMB Scotland
  • Craig Williams, Workers controlling one of Scotland's busiest roads
  • Keir Greenaway, GMB Scotland senior organiser in public services
  • COSLA
  • The Scottish Government
  • Glasgow City Council