Staff 'termination' outcome looms

The pay deal is designed to address historic inequalities

The deadline is approaching in a council pay vote which could see about 6,000 staff being sacked and rehired on new contracts if the offer is rejected.

Workers with Dumfries and Galloway Council are being balloted on the deal to address historic pay inequalities.

Earlier this year, the authority sent termination notices to its staff which would allow it to impose the deal.

If the ballot results in a "No" vote, the council could end workers' current contracts and impose the new pay rates.

There have been numerous bids to agree the "single status" salary package over several years.

Contracts terminated

A deadline of 31 July was set on voting for the revised pay structure.

Meanwhile, the council has taken steps to impose the deal, if it is rejected at ballot.

Employees would have their current contracts terminated on 1 October and then be rehired on the new pay scheme.

The outcome of the ballot should be known within a matter of days.

Votes will be counted on Monday, with a result expected 24 hours after that.