Hundreds join protest over shock job cuts
HUNDREDS of supporters have protested against job losses outside a Glasgow office.
Around 200 union members from the STUC, PCS, GMB, Unite and Unison gathered for the demonstration yesterday morning, joined by MP Chris Stephens.
The group were protesting in solidarity with workers at the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC), who they claim were “sacked by e-mail” by government bosses.
Around 10 employees are understood to have been let go from offices across the country, however their managers insist they were told in person ahead of redundancy letters being issued.
The staff were told to clear their desks on Thursday and are understood to be receiving pay in lieu of notice (PILON).
However they argue they did not agree to the plans, as it means they will not be able to seek other employment opportunities within the organisation or elsewhere in the civil service.
PCS general secretary Mark Serwotka said: “It’s absolutely reprehensible that dedicated staff have been sacked and told to clear their desks with a day’s notice.
“That this has happened at the government body charged with upholding human rights and fair treatment in our society is an absolute scandal and we will continue to fight it.”
An EHRC spokesman said: “It is untrue to say staff have been sacked by e-mail.
“Face to face meetings have taken place over recent weeks to notify them when redundancy letters would be issued.
“The full notice period is being paid as this will give every person the chance to focus on securing alternative employment, i n which they will have our continued and full support to help them.
“Like every public sector organisation we have had cuts imposed on us and it is with great sadness that we have to issue redundancy notices.
“We regret having to do this but have made sure the process has been fair, robust and transparent.”