ESSENTIAL school staff members took to the picket lines yesterday as three days of industrial action commenced in the Wee County.

Unison members confirmed they would be striking from Tuesday, September 26 – Thursday, September 28 due to an ongoing pay dispute.

The governing authority Cosla put forward an improved pay offer five months ago which was overwhelmingly rejected by the union.

Strike dates were announced several months ago, prompting Cosla to put forward an offer which would see an increase of 0.17%.

This would mean the lowest paid staff members would receive an increase of just one penny per hour, which Unison deemed to be unacceptable.

Kevin McIntyre, branch secretary for Unison Clackmannanshire, said that the strikes were unfortunate but necessary.

He added: “Cosla and the Scottish Government have had five months in which to negotiate a fair pay settlement for our members but have done absolutely nothing.

“With yet another well-below-inflation pay rise on the table and no attempt made by the employers to find a resolution, Unison members are left with no choice but to act.

“This is the first in a series of strike days that will see continued disruptions to schools across Clackmannanshire over the coming months.

“Cosla and the Scottish Government must get back around the table and reach a negotiated settlement with trade unions.”

Strike action was voted on by members in August, which became the largest-ever vote for strike action by school staff in Scotland.

Last-ditch talks took place between Cosla and Unison over the weekend, but the union confirmed that they had no change to their plans, and confirmed their members would walk out.

Sister unions Unite and GMB confirmed that they would suspend their strikes to allow members to be consulted and consider their next move.

This industrial action sees 24 council areas in Scotland affected by strikes, with essential non-teaching staff taking part in the picket lines.

Picket lines were organised and took place outside Alloa Academy, St Mungos Primary, Alva Academy, Alva Primary, Menstrie ELC, Park Primary, Redwell Primary, Sunnyside Primary, Tillicoultry Primary and Clackmannan Primary.