Workers must be listened to as the cost of living crisis soars
Whilst it might seem the country at large is concerned with who the new Prime Minister will be, it strikes me that local people are more focused on the dwindling value of their pay packets and the soaring cost of living.
That is clear in the case of Prestwick Airport where workers who have experienced years of uncertainty about the future of the airport are now quite rightly considering whether to strike over a derisory pay offer that equates to a real terms pay cut.
I think this is an important fight for our community to keep on top of as devaluing pay over time is a serious problem that is pushing more and more families into a desperate struggle. During a time when energy bills are soaring pay should be going up, not down. The airport represents the continuing international outlook of Ayrshire and it is only right that those who work there are fairly remunerated, just like everyone else; and all this whilst the pay of directors is protected, a contradiction so many of us will be familiar with.
You would think a Scottish Government-owned venture would have a greater commitment to fairness and paying a wage people can actually live on. Think again.
It benefits everyone if the lower floor for pay goes up.
Younger people can get onto the housing ladder quicker, more families will want to stay in our area and build a life here, and good secure jobs create healthier pension pots for all over time whilst retaining skills in the local community for generations to come.
I will be making the case to the Scottish Government that they must listen to these workers and set an example for all companies to follow.