Cost-cutting award for city council staff

STAFF at the city council are better than any other local authorities in the country at cutting costs.

The council has won an award at the Government Business Awards for its success at delivering efficiencies, being named winner of the financial performance category.

Trade unions say that the award is proof that there should be no job cuts at the council. Kevin Duguid, Unison's lead negotiator in Edinburgh, said: "We share the council's aspiration to be the best and to provide efficient services to the taxpayers of Edinburgh. What this award shows is that the grass isn't always greener on the other side of the fence.

"Unison has always had faith in the work of our members and we're delighted that this dedication and efficiency has been recognised and rewarded at the highest level.

"It's just a pity that the council sits alone in failing to see that when it comes to council services in Edinburgh 'public works'. Our message to the leader of the administration is simple: 'if it ain't broke, don't fix it'."