Unions and employers agree way forward

(13/08/08) Trade unions and local government employers in England, Northern Ireland and Wales have confirmed they will meet again next week to continue negotiations on pay and conditions.Talks reopened yesterday with an initial meeting to set the timetable and agenda for the way forward.UNISON head of local government Heather Wakefield, who is also the joint union side secretary, said the talks were "an initial meeting" to "kick off National Joint Council negotiations in the context of the agreed statement with the Local Government Association. The meeting focussed on the timetable and process for the talks, which will continue on 22 August."The joint statement between UNISON, Unite and the employers which paved the way for the talks had said that a "new era of employment is needed to reflect properly the contribution of the workforce" to improving services and meeting the needs of their local communities.The statement went on: "to secure this new settlement, the partners are committed to immediate serious and meaningful negotiations over a range of issues", including the joint union pay claim and a review of conditions of service, with "nothing ruled in or out". The talks will aim for proposals "that recognise the aspirations of the workforce in the context of the financial position of local government".Negotiations will continue on 22 August, and Ms Wakefield added: "Arrangements are being made for meetings of the UNISON and trade union sides of the NJC executive for next week, prior to the next meeting with the employers. Further updates will be sent to branches and posted on the UNISON web site.