Everybody out! (ctd.)
March 30 2015
Picture: Museums Journal
The PCS Union, not satisfied with gaining publicity by shutting down the National Gallery through strikes, is now targeting the Royal Collection. A ballot is to be held on industrial action, ending on 14th April, about staff doing 'extra duties', for which the PCS says they are unpaid.
Mark Serwotka, boss of the PCS, said (in The Telegraph):
"It is scandalous that staff are so appallingly paid and expected to do work for free that brings in money for the royal family."
However, the PCS vote is aimed at the Royal Collection Trust, which is a self-sustaining operation looking after, er, the Royal Collection - that is, the paintings and other works of art held in trust on behalf of the nation. It does not 'bring in money for the Royal family'.
The Royal Collection said in a statement:
"Warden staff are offered voluntary opportunities to receive training and develop skills to lead guided tours for visitors as part of their working day and to administer first aid, as well as to use their language skills.
"These are not compulsory aspects of their role, and it is the choice of the individual whether they wish to take part.
"Wardens at Windsor Castle are paid above market median based upon the Regional Living Wage and receive a range of benefits, including a 15% non-contributory pension and a free lunch.
"Royal Collection Trust continues to award wardens an annual performance-related pay increase of up to 2.5%, in addition to the cost of living increase (in line with treasury guidelines), as well as one-off payments to those who have reached the top of their pay scale.
