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2022 Scotland bin strikes
The 2022 Scotland bin strike was a labour strike by bin workers across Scotland. The workers, represented by the GMB were striking for a pay rise to match that being given to local government workers in the rest of the UK.[1] The strikes began in Edinburgh but spread to other parts of Scotland, affecting 20 of Scotland's 32 council areas.[2][3] EventsOn 18 August, and following a pay dispute with Convention of Scottish Local Authorities (COSLA), refuse workers belonging to the Unison, Unite and GMB trade unions launched industrial action in Edinburgh. The 12-day strike began as the city played host to the 2022 Edinburgh Festival. The walkout ended at 04:59 on 30 August.[4] The trade unions stated the main reason for strike was due to the UK cost of living crisis.[5] Residents in Edinburgh were told by Edinburgh City Council to keep all rubbish indoors.[6] On 29 August, GMB rejected the offer proposed by the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities. According to the Scottish Government, the deal included a payment of at least £1,925 for council staff, with those earning £20,000 receiving £2,000.[7] On 1 September, First Minister of Scotland Nicola Sturgeon met with council leaders and trade union leaders to resolve the dispute.[8] On 2 September, the strikes were called off by the three unions involved after a 10% pay deal was agreed upon.[9] Sturgeon had previously been criticised for attending Edinburgh Festival events while the strike was ongoing. [10] Health warningA health warning was declared by Public Health Scotland due to the build-up of rubbish in urban areas.[11] They also called on local authorities to deep clean public areas.[12] See alsoReferences
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