Unions launch ballot on ITV pay offer

Trade unions members working at ITV were balloted yesterday on the broadcaster's pay offer for next year, with the prospect of industrial action potentially on the cards.

Broadcasting unions Bectu, the National Union of Journalists and Unite recently called on ITV to offer a 2011 pay increase in-line with inflation, up to 4.5% on the latest figures.

Despite the fact that 2010 has seen an upsurge in ITV's performance, negotiators representing the broadcaster attempted to argue that next year is not looking so positive.

Members are now voting on ITV's offer to provide a 3% consolidated pay increase, along with £120 in shares and £180 in cash, subject to eligibility rules.

David Beevers, Bectu supervisory official, said that the offer means any employees earning an annual salary of £30,000 would get an overall pay increase of 4%. A consultative ballot opened yesterday and voting will close at noon on January 6.

In a message to Bectu members, Beevers added that ITV's offer is the best that can be achieved through negotiation and, if rejected, would trigger strikes as the only other option.

"The joint unions feel, as the offer falls short of the claim submitted, we are not in a position to recommend the package. However, we have succeeded in improving the company's original position," said Beevers.

"In light of the fact that ITV has made clear that this is their final offer, we believe that this is the best that can be achieved through negotiation.

"If the company's offer is rejected then it is likely that the joint unions will be in dispute in the New Year with the potential for industrial action."

All ITV employees experienced a basic pay freeze throughout 2010, as the commercial broadcaster attempted to bring its costs under control in the recession.