The STUC's Martin Keenan addressed workers in Dundee

The strike has caused the closure of schools, nurseries and disruption to social work and housing services across Tayside and Central Scotland.

The action caused the suspension of tolls on the Tay Road Bridge for what was thought to be the first time.

Rubbish collections have also been suspended because of the action.

Speaking from Dundee, where all schools have closed, STUC General Council member Martin Keenan said unions were "outraged" at government plans to scrap a rule allowing some workers to retire on a full pension at 60.

Union support

"The Scottish Executive must abandon its decision to scrap the Rule of 85, protecting the current pension rights of scheme members and enter into constructive negotiations on the future of the local government scheme," said Mr Keenan, who addressed the rally on Tuesday.

"This way forward would be supported by all trade unions representing local government employees."

The action by council staff gained support from other areas of the public sector.

Kenny Ross of the Fire Brigades Union told the gathering: "It's a national disgrace that under a so-called Labour government we have so many workers having to take such drastic action."

Emergency staff have been drafted in to deal with potential accidents and emergencies following the 24-hour suspension of the Tay Road Bridge charges.

In Angus, the strike has caused the closure of all of the region's eight secondary schools, 22 of its 59 primary schools and four nurseries.

Council services in Dundee were brought to a standstill

Housing services were cut back and mental health day services for Tuesday cancelled.

Angus Council leader Rob Murray stressed the action was against central government, adding: "While any strike action is regrettable we as employers fully appreciate staff frustration."

All council offices, primary and secondary schools and educational facilities were closed in Perth and Kinross.

Perth's Rannoch Road Day Care Centre has stayed open to provide a service to vulnerable older people.

It was a similar picture in Clackmannanshire, where all schools and nurseries, apart from one primary school, were closed.

Services in Stirling were not as badly hit, with all seven secondary schools remaining open, as well as all but one nursery.