Jobs axe falls on West Dunbartonshire Council apprentices

Jul 10 2009 by Lorraine Waddell, Lennox Herald (main ed)

APPRENTICES at West Dunbartonshire Council are facing the dole after their jobs were axed.

Up to 20 people will be out of work within a month as they come to the end of their apprenticeships with the local authority.

Young administration workers and tradesmen, including joiners and plumbers, were hit with the shock news last Thursday that they will not be kept on.

The apprentices – some of whom have young families – were said to be “devastated.”

Concern has been raised over cash – which could have safeguarded these jobs – going to sub-contractors to undertake the kind of work the apprentices could have completed.

And union chiefs have hit out at the lack of consultation on the issue.

Unite branch convener Charlie McDonald said: “Obviously we are deeply disappointed.

“The council is saying there’s not enough work available but I would ask how many agency workers are still being employed within the council.

“I have been speaking to some of the managers and, although they are sympathetic, they feel there was no other option.”

Trade union bosses recently called on the council to create another 100 apprenticeships, and the move was being costed and considered by councillors.

This made the latest jobs cut by management all the more shocking to the unions.

Mr McDonald continued: “I’m deeply disappointed that this hasn’t been submitted to councillors who are still debating over 100 more apprentices.

“The council is not giving these young people the chance to bed into their chosen trade.

“There has been no consultation with the union on this. It’s not got that bad for the biggest employer in the area that the first we hear of this is when the workers are told.

“If the council can’t protect these jobs, they should be looking to make changes elsewhere, higher up the chain.”

Independent Councillor George Black is furious at the news and its timing, given that the council is in recess until next month.

He said: “I am appalled that employees have been given information like this on July 2 when there are effectively no council meetings again until August.

“Work should be carried out by employees like these people rather than by sub-contractors.

“I will be taking this up with the chief executive. It’s outrageous.”

Scottish Socialist Party councillor Jim Bollan said: “If you look at the management structure we seem to have employed an awful lot of new senior managers in West Dunbartonshire Council.

“We would better retaining these young people and giving them a proper start in life.”

A council spokeswoman said: “If we are unable to offer employment to apprentices, every effort will be made by the council and our partners to assist the apprentices in finding alternative employment.

“It is hoped that apprentices who do leave the council will leave fully trained, having gained the necessary skills and experience to help them find alternative employment.

“Employees who have completed their apprenticeships and are not offered continuing employment are given assistance, in a variety of ways, to find alternative employment.

“This includes an advisory meeting, attended by a union representative, to confirm that an extended period of notice is available.”