Women launch equal pay test case

http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/rss/-/1/hi/scotland/glasgow_and_west/7946085.stm

Version 0 of 1.

A test case on equal pay for female council workers in Glasgow is due to go before an industrial tribunal.

Six woman are taking the action on behalf of about 50 other female staff in manual jobs like cleaning, catering and home help.

The women will argue that they should be paid the same as men employed in jobs that the council's job evaluation scheme has rated as equivalent.

The outcome of the tribunal could have an impact on other Scottish councils.

The women's legal team will argue that additional bonus payments to some men mean they can earn up to 50% or more, per hour, than women.

This hearing is of significant importance for 5,000 Glasgow City Council women employees with similar claims Carol FoxStefan Cross Solicitors If the action is successful, the women could be awarded compensation for any pay shortfall dating back five years from the date they complained and up to the time the matter is settled.

A number of cases date back to 2005, meaning compensation could be awarded for nine years of pay shortages.

Carol Fox, from Stefan Cross Solicitors, who is representing the six women, said: "This hearing is of significant importance for 5,000 Glasgow City Council women employees with similar claims."

The tribunal gets underway a week after Glasgow City Council said it was increasing its minimum wage for staff to £7 per hour in a bid to tackle low pay.