Sturgeon urged to solve bin crisis

Published on Thursday 23 July 2009 22:02

NICOLA Sturgeon has been urged to sort out Edinburgh's uncollected bins crisis, as the latest attempt to break the deadlock between council officials and union leaders failed.

Politicians believe the health secretary should step in to resolve the dispute, which is blighting the city as thousands of overseas visitors arrive for the Gathering – the centrepiece of the Homecoming celebrations.

However, the government insists the dispute is a matter for Edinburgh city council to resolve with trade union leaders.

The latest talks between the council and unions on the work-to-rule action by refuse collectors and street cleaners broke down last night after five hours.

As outrage over the state of the capital grew yesterday, the council was urged to bring in outside contractors to keep the city's streets clean.

Unite union leaders fear staff could see their wages cut from 18,000 to about 12,000 under a new pay system. Unite is balloting members on a strike.

The Labour MP for Edinburgh North and Leith, Mark Lazarowicz, has written to Ms Sturgeon asking her to take action. He said: "The problem with uncollected rubbish is now becoming extremely serious. As well as the obvious environmental consequences, there are growing and urgent public health concerns. We need to see a resolution fast, and the SNP government must now intervene to solve this problem."

The suggestion that private contractors be brought in was made by Pentlands Tory MSP David McLetchie, who said: "The council has turned Edinburgh into a building site and a rubbish tip. It is an embarrassment and a growing health hazard."

The city council said it had offered the union an improved package. Environment director Mark Turley said: "We presented proposals that would avoid refuse workers and street cleaners losing substantial amounts of money. This proposal was in return for the union to return to normal working immediately."

A Scottish Government spokesman said: "We would encourage the city council and trade unions to resolve this issue as soon as possible."