Industrial Action

10 September 2014

Trade Unions at the National Library of Wales will take part in industrial action on Wednesday 10 September, resulting in the closure of the building to the general public.

 Aled Gruffydd Jones, Chief Executive and Librarian said:

 “The Library has already offered all staff a pay award of 3% together with an additional sum to employees on low wages, back dated to April 2013, placing the organisation in a position to meet the Welsh Government’s Living Wage target by April 2015.  It is therefore disappointing that the Unions have refused this offer. However, the Library will continue with its intention to implement the Living Wage by April 2015.”

The Chief Executive and Librarian went on to say:

“The Union’s response to this offer has been premature. As part of the offer the Library has also committed itself to the possibility of offering a consolidated pay award as part of the 3% pay offer.  The Library is only too aware of the concerns as regard to pay and that’s why implementing a consolidated pay award is high on our agenda. That is certainly our wish, but we must first of all ensure we have the resources in place to do it and that will become clearer on 30 September when the Welsh Government will publish its draft budget.”

This industrial action is taking place at a very difficult period financially for the Library. Staff salaries are paid from the Grant in Aid it receives from Welsh Government which has seen a substantial reduction during the last ten years. It is a matter of concern to us that there is a real possibility that the Grant in Aid will be reduced further in 2015-2016 and will be in addition to this year’s 2% reduction.

The Library wishes to apologise to members of the public for any inconvenience this industrial action will cause, and we shall endeavour to resolve this situation as soon as possible

For further information contact the Chief Executive and Librarian, Aled Gruffydd Jones, on 01970 632805/agj@llgc.org.uk.