| 2022 Scotland bin strikes | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Part of the 2021–present UK cost-of-living crisis and UK industrial disputes and strikes (2022–present) | |||
 A typical bin lorry in Edinburgh. | |||
| Date | 18 August 2022 – 2 September 2022 | ||
| Location | |||
| Methods | Strikes | ||
| Parties | |||
| Lead figures | |||
| United Kingdom cost-of-living crisis |
|---|
 |
| Background |
| Industrial action |
| ||
|---|---|---|
|
Deputy First Minister of Scotland (2004–2014)
First Minister of Scotland (2014–2023)
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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]
On 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]
A 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.[citation needed]
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