Labour fears cost of bin dispute

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A dispute involving refuse collectors could result in millions of pounds of lost revenue for Scotland's capital, it has been claimed.

Council bin staff in Edinburgh are working-to-rule because of a row over plans to change the way they are paid.

Rubbish collections have been affected and the union Unite is balloting members for industrial action.

Labour politicians warned the city is being damaged because of the SNP/Lib Dem council's handling of the issue.

With tourists flocking to Edinburgh for the festival period, Labour politicians said the dispute could hit the economy.

The party claimed the capital's festivals generate at least £170m for the economy and support 3,200 jobs.

With thousands of people attending The Gathering event in Edinburgh this weekend, bosses at City of Edinburgh Council brought in private contractors to help with street cleaning and refuse collection.

'Showcasing Scotland'

A total of 30 additional staff have been brought in for the weekend, and extra litter picking, street sweeping and emptying of bins will take place over the two-day event.

Councillor Steve Cardownie, the authority's festivals champion, said: "The Gathering is showcasing Scotland to the world this weekend and our international reputation is imperative to the continuing economic health of the city.

"We want to ensure that visitors have a quality experience here and that business interests are maintained.

"I'm sure this weekend will be a great success for all involved."

But Sarah Boyack, the Labour MSP for Edinburgh Central, hit out at the way the council had handled the dispute.

She said: "Edinburgh's position as the festival city is being damaged because of the SNP/Lib Dem council's inability to deal with this issue.

'Failure of leadership'

"The way they have gone about dealing with this has been inept and Edinburgh citizens are paying the price.

"Worse still could be the loss of millions of pounds of revenue to the Edinburgh economy as tourists either stay away or don't return."

Ms Boyack added: "There are 3,200 jobs supported by the festivals and they are threatened by this failure of leadership from the council."

Speaking about the decision to bring in private contractors, the council's environment leader, Robert Aldridge, said: "Proposals for new working and shift arrangements that avoid street cleaners and other council employees losing substantial amounts of money, in return for normal working are on the table.

"But until we have a negotiated settlement we have a clear responsibility to do everything in our power to manage things sensibly, maintain our quality of life and show the city at its best."