Press release: Trade union agreement at Murdostoun care facility

Central Scotland MSP Monica Lennon has lodged a motion in the Scottish Parliament highlighting the failure of a Wishaw-based care facility to recognise a trade union agreement.

The Active Care Group at the Murdostoun Brain Injury Rehabilitation and Neurological Care Centre has officially derecognised GMB Scotland, with the agreement ending on June 30.

Scottish Labour and Co-operative representative, Monica Lennon MSP, said: “The fact that there is no longer trade union agreement in place for the staff at Murdostoun is really concerning.

“The Active Care Group has failed to engage with its workers or representatives from GMB Scotland, which is clearly detrimental to the staff and fair work practices.

“I have also learned that union representatives were refused access to the workplace. I have made it clear to Active Care Group that this conduct is unacceptable and have tabled a motion in the Scottish Parliament in support of the workers.

“The staff deserve praise for their dedication during the pandemic and all they continue to do to care and support people with complex needs – they most certainly do not deserve the stress of their union being derecognised by their employer.

“Workers’ rights are coming under increasing attack and that’s why we need strong trade unions representing the collective interests of their members.

“The Active Care Group must do the right thing, enter into talks with GMB Scotland and reach a new agreement. Staff at the Murdostoun facility must have their interests effectively represented and the terms and conditions of their contracts protected.”