Wirral council agrees redundancy terms with union

Feb 13 2013 by Liam Murphy, Heswall News

WIRRAL Council is aiming to avoid compulsory redundancies by continuing to offer an “enhanced” package to those choosing to leave their jobs.

Council leader Phil Davies pushed through the deal, which see those taking redundancy receive 1.8 times their salary, up to a maximum 54 weeks.

Chief executive Graham Burgess had told the meeting, held in Wallasey town hall, that discussions with the Government had indicated the council could use money generated from sale of assets to fund redundancies – but warned this agreement is still not in writing.

The council faces a budget deficit of £39m this year, plus another £38m in “one-off costs”, and it is widely anticipated 500 to 700 staff will have to be made redundant.

Cllr Davies told the meeting he wanted to “avoid compulsory redundancies as far as possible” and his proposal – although less than was paid in the past – may now ensure enough staff volunteer to leave.

Unison branch leader Joe Taylor said he thought the improved proposal could “bring forward a number of volunteers”.

But Tory opposition leader Jeff Green said he was concerned the enhanced redundancy terms could lead to more council workers losing their jobs.

He said: “The difference between what the chief executive recommended and what cabinet agreed to is £3m – equivalent to 150 jobs.”