Unions claim hundreds of jobs losses “a reality” at Thurrock Council

UNION bosses have claimed that Thurrock Council can expect to see 292 jobs go in the light of the government’s announcement yesterday.

In a statement on their website, GMB National Secretary for Public Services Brian Strutton said “Today’s announcement of the grant settlement for local authorities means that the job loss predictions will now become a reality with many more to come.

“The scale of cuts will be a devastating blow to council workers as local services are to be slashed.

The reports GMB have been compiling from local authorities about their expected job losses in anticipation of these cuts has already reached over 72,912 at 77 councils and is predicted by council employers to rise to 140,000 for 2011/12.

According to the figures, Thurrock will see 292 jobs go. Other councils quoted are: Suffolk 1500, Havering 509, Newham 278 and Harlow 30.