Taking us for a ride

Letter: Sandwell Council employees have been on strike for a decent pay rise which they haven't had for years. I believe 2.45 per cent is on the table. Next year the offer is 1.8 per cent.

The councillors give themselves a good rise, so why not the staff? Check the Sandwell Council website if you do not believe me.

Sandwell councillors are a devious bunch. For years they have not replaced employees who have retired or left for various reasons, but the same amount of work is being carried out by those left.

Most departments are understaffed and each one is under pressure as the council eats away at their budgets, thus making them look more lucrative for a potential sell-out to contractors under the guise of partnership.

There will be no council as such soon, just a quango passing the buck when things go wrong to the contractors.

The people of Sandwell will always pay the price.

Councillors make very poor judgements on issues - the arts centre comes to mind, locally known as Sandwell Millennium Dome.

Most people work for contractors these days, Sandwell Homes for one, the office staff in Oldbury for another and more departments are on the agenda.

There is no money left in the kitty, they would have you believe, and even try to intimidate the people of Sandwell by saying if we pay these wage demands the council tax will rise.

What piffle - there are millions in hidden assets, most to keep their own pockets lined. Wake up everyone, we all are being taken for a ride.

C Vermont, Whitehouse Street, Tipton.