Union chiefs ‘concerned’ over Dundee City Council cost-cutting

Union bosses say they are “extremely concerned” over a proposed cost-cutting restructuring programme at Dundee City Council.

The SNP controlled local authority faces reducing its spending by £24million over the next three years.

Social work services for the elderly, children and vulnerable groups are likely to be the only areas protected from the cuts.

The council is also looking to cut jobs through a voluntary redundancy and early retirement scheme.

Savings of more than £5million have already been identified this year to keep council tax frozen.

Rory Malone, Unison branch secretary, said they were still in the dark over the precise proposals.

He said: “They haven’t come up with what’s happening.  I think we should have been involved right from the start, not when they announce a three-week consultation or something.

“The biggest concern for us is they’re cutting public jobs and services and where does the service go from that.

“We’re facing massive cuts and our position is to protect people and their jobs.  It’s definitely a really difficult time.”

Council leader Ken Guild said the authority’s chief executive David Dorward was working with senior council officers on a restructuring plan, and a report would be presented soon.