Four days of planned strike action by some East Dunbartonshire Council employees due to start tomorrow (Thursday) has been called off.
As a result of positive discussions today which saw the Council present further alternative proposals relating to potential changes to terms and conditions, the trades unions have agreed to withdraw their planned four day strike action affecting Waste and Fleet Services at Hilton Depot and Mavis Valley Recycling Centre which was due to take place on Thursday 12, Friday 13, Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 July.
Based on progress made in these discussions and the withdrawal of this strike action, commitment was given by both the Council and the trades unions to enter into further intensive negotiation next week in an effort to reach a formal agreement.
Joint Council Leader Andrew Polson said, "Significant progress has been made and I'm delighted that the trades unions have withdrawn strike action over the next few days. The Joint Administration is committed to working together with the trades union in good faith to reach agreement which is mutually acceptable and I'm hopeful that this can be achieved next week."
Joint Council Leader Vaughan Moody added, "We've stated previously that the current financial climate is extremely challenging and difficult decisions have had to be taken but it's positive that the current negotiation process is identifying potential alternative solutions and hopefully discussions next week will conclude with a negotiated settlement."
Bin collections will now continue as planned and residents are asked to present their bins on their scheduled day as normal.
Action short of strike across service areas for GMB, Unison and Unite - including working to rule and no overtime - will continue to run in parallel with the negotiation process next week.
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