School janitors across Glasgow will go on strike for three days next week in a dispute over pay.

More than 130 Unison members employed by Cordia as school janitors in primary schools, additional support for learning schools and nurseries will strike for three days next week in a dispute over pay.

The union claims Cordia is refusing to pay a Working Context and Demands Payment to school janitors and is using spurious arguments to justify not making this payment.

The city council and its arms-length organisation's pay structure awards payments to workers who undertake duties which are dirty, unpleasant, involve working outside on a regular basis or heavy lifting. The annual payment ranges from £500 to £1000.

Janitors have been boycotting the disputed duties for six weeks and have decided to escalate their action as Cordia and the council refuse to talk to the trade union to reach a negotiated settlement.

Sam Macartney, Unison Glasgow's branch officer, said: "Unison is very clear that school janitors meet the criteria to be awarded this payment.

"Our members have been left with no option other than to take this action as both Cordia and the council are wrong and just not listening to our members.

"The council needs to get round the table with Unison and agree a negotiated settlement of our members' legitimate claim.”

Teachers, education support workers, cleaners and catering staff have been advised by their trade unions not to undertake the duties of janitors taking industrial action.