Strike threatens jail for minor offenders

Published on Tuesday 6 January 2009 23:16

COMMUNITY service supervisors started an indefinite strike yesterday that could result in minor offenders having to serve jail sentences.

Union leaders warned the action by 21 Glasgow city council staff, who oversee work in the community carried out as punishment for law-breaking, could leave courts no alternative but to hand prison terms to petty criminals.

The supervisors look after about 150 offenders who get training or do unpaid work such as gardening or painting.

Unison, which represents the staff in the social work department, said the action was triggered by a pay dispute.

A new grading by the council could lead to some workers facing cuts of up to 1,500 a year, the union claimed.

The council said it was "deeply disappointed" by the decision to strike and added measures were in place to minimise disruption.

About 50 offenders are currently in personal placements. They work in an enterprise such as a charity shop and need no supervision.

The council said about 40 more such placements could start soon, which would mitigate the effects of the strike.

Brian Smith, of Unison, said the pay dispute had been simmering for about two years. He said: "Members are angry that despite promises, the employers continue to fail to recognise the job they do and pay them a fair rate."

Mr Smith admitted the action could have a "disproportionate effect", with a large number of minor offenders affected by only a handful of workers going on strike.

Asked if he was worried petty criminals could be jailed, he said: "If the council speaks to us, that won't happen."

A council spokesman said: "We are deeply disappointed. We believe we have made an appropriate offer."