What's happened
Unison support workers in Perth and Kinross have initiated a two-week strike, leading to the closure of primary schools and early learning centers. The strike, targeting First Minister John Swinney's constituency, is a response to a rejected pay offer. Secondary schools may remain open with remote learning options.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to The Scotsman, Unison's strike action is a direct response to a rejected pay offer, with union leaders emphasizing the need for fair compensation. The Independent highlights that the strike is strategically aimed at First Minister John Swinney's constituency to draw attention to the issue. Meanwhile, BBC News reports that the strike could disrupt education for many students, with the council unable to guarantee safety due to staff shortages. The Guardian notes that the pay deal offered is seen as inadequate compared to increases received by other public sector workers, further fueling discontent among council staff.
How we got here
The strike follows Unison's rejection of a pay offer from local government body Cosla, which proposed a wage increase of either 67p an hour or 3.6%. This action is aimed at highlighting the perceived undervaluation of council staff compared to other public sector workers who received higher pay increases.
Common question
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What are the reasons behind the school strikes in Perth and Kinross?
The ongoing school strikes in Perth and Kinross have raised significant concerns among parents, students, and educators alike. With Unison leading the charge against a rejected pay deal, many are left wondering how this will impact the education system and what actions are being taken to resolve the situation. Below are some frequently asked questions that delve deeper into the current crisis.
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Why are schools in Perth and Kinross going on strike?
The upcoming school strikes in Perth and Kinross have raised many questions among parents, students, and the community. With the strike set to begin on October 21, it's crucial to understand the reasons behind this action, the potential impact on schools, and what demands the striking workers are making. Below are some common questions and clear answers to help you navigate this situation.
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What is the Current Status of the Scottish Independence Movement After Alex Salmond's Death?
The recent passing of Alex Salmond, a pivotal figure in the Scottish independence movement, has raised questions about the future of the movement itself. With his significant contributions to Scottish politics and the independence campaign, many are wondering how his death will affect the current landscape of Scottish nationalism and the ongoing quest for independence. Below, we explore key questions surrounding this topic.
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What are the political implications of Alex Salmond's death in Scotland?
The recent passing of Alex Salmond, a pivotal figure in Scottish politics, has raised numerous questions about the future of the political landscape in Scotland. As tributes pour in from various leaders, many are left wondering how this event will influence the ongoing political climate, including the upcoming school strikes and union responses. Below are some frequently asked questions that delve into these pressing issues.
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Why are Scottish schools facing closures due to Unison strikes?
Scottish schools are bracing for significant disruptions as Unison strikes loom, leading to potential closures of primary schools and early learning centers. This situation raises important questions about the reasons behind the strikes, the impact on students and parents, and how remote learning will be managed during this period. Here’s what you need to know.
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What Are the Implications of Strikes in the Education Sector?
Strikes in the education sector can have significant effects on students, teachers, and families. As recent events in Scotland highlight, the potential for widespread school closures raises important questions about the impact on learning and the strategies schools can adopt to mitigate disruptions. Here, we explore the implications of these strikes and what they mean for the future of education.
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Why are schools in Perth and Kinross closed due to the Unison strike?
The recent Unison strike in Perth and Kinross has led to the closure of primary schools and early learning centers, raising concerns among parents and students. This situation prompts further questions about the implications of the strike, how it affects education, and what alternatives are available for remote learning during this period.
More on these topics
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John Ramsay Swinney is a Scottish politician serving as Deputy First Minister of Scotland since 2014 and Cabinet Secretary for Education and Skills since 2016.
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Unison, stylised as UNISON, is the largest trade union in the United Kingdom with almost 1.4 million members.
The union was formed in 1993 when three public sector trade unions, the National and Local Government Officers Association, the National Union of
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The Scottish National Party is a Scottish nationalist and social-democratic political party in Scotland. The SNP supports and campaigns for Scottish independence within the European Union, with a platform based on civic nationalism.
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The Scottish Government is the devolved government of Scotland.
The government is led by the First Minister, who selects the Cabinet Secretaries, who attend Cabinet, and Ministers with the approval of Parliament.
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Perth and Kinross is one of the 32 council areas of Scotland and a Lieutenancy Area. It borders onto the Aberdeenshire, Angus, Argyll and Bute, Clackmannanshire, Dundee, Fife, Highland and Stirling council areas. Perth is the administrative centre.
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Scotland is a country that is part of the United Kingdom. Covering the northern third of the island of Great Britain, mainland Scotland has a 96 mile border with England to the southeast and is otherwise surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean to the north and w
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Malawi, officially the Republic of Malawi, is a landlocked country in southeastern Africa that was formerly known as Nyasaland.
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Shona McRory Robison is a Scottish National Party politician serving as the Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice, Housing and Local Government since May 2021.
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England is a country that is part of the United Kingdom. It shares land borders with Wales to its west and Scotland to its north. The Irish Sea lies northwest of England and the Celtic Sea to the southwest. England is separated from continental Europe by