Unison Strike Disrupts Schools in Perthshire North

Striking non-teaching staff in John Swinney's constituency of Perth and Kinross have initiated a two-week industrial action, leading to the closure of all primary schools, nurseries, and some secondary schools. The strike, organized by the union Unison, follows the rejection of a pay increase offer from local authority Cosla, which was accepted by other unions but deemed insufficient by Unison. Swinney has criticized the targeting of his constituency as 'unacceptable' and stated that there is no additional funding available for improved pay deals, a sentiment echoed by Finance Secretary Shona Robison. As the strike progresses, the council has reported that the school situation may remain 'fluid,' with some schools reopening but many still closed. Unison representatives argue that their members deserve pay parity with other public sectors and are prepared for a potential national strike ballot if negotiations do not improve. The ongoing disputes highlight the tensions between local government funding and staff remuneration in Scotland's education sector.