Guernsey’s public sector unions, representing the majority of States employees, have voiced strong opposition to amendments proposing a static pay rate and closing any post left vacant for six months.

The amendments aim to cut spending and have been supported in principle by deputies.

The joint unions said in a statement: “Well-defined pay structures with incremental progression are essential for public sector remuneration schemes across the British Isles.”

The States of Guernsey has been approached for comment.

The unions claim replacing pay scales would severely undermine the terms and conditions of States employees, leading to significant negative consequences.

They predict the supply of new recruits will dry up, damaging Guernsey’s public services.

Additionally, they criticise the amendment to delete vacant posts after six months, saying it “shows no understanding of the recruitment market for difficult to fill posts, and will cause unnecessary bureaucracy and disruption”.