Civil service wages will feature in the talks

The Civil Service Board is meeting with unions as part of moves to re-structure the Civil Service's pay scale.

The board looks after all matters relating to the payment and conditions of service of all salaried and waged staff employed by the States.

Union leaders say the current pay structure for States workers is uneven, with some getting paid less than other for similar work. They say one scenario that concerns them in particular is that women get less than men.

Jobs re-graded

Negotiations have been taking place for several years. As a result, a formula for re-grading States employees has been outlined.

But it has proved harder to reach agreement on what wage rates to attach to re-graded jobs.

Union leaders say the new pay structures should mean people get equal pay for equal work.

However, while it will lead to an increase for many, it is also possible that recommendations mean that some people's pay will be cut.

The talks are being held between the Civil Service Board and Transport and General Workers Union (TGWU) national organiser Jack Dromey.

The regional industrial organiser for the TGWU, Peter du Port, said they hope to get the new pay measures in place as soon as possible.

The Civil Service Board said of its duties: "We ensure that personnel policies are legally compliant and effective in terms of best practice and good management."