WORKERS at further education colleges in Wales are to ballot on strike action over pay, unions revealed yesterday.

The six unions involved represent lecturers, cleaners, technicians, secretaries, administrators, and catering staff among others.

ColegauCymru, the further education employers’ organisation in Wales, says there will be no pay increase for staff this year.

Joint Trade Union Wales secretary Margaret Phelan said: “Our members have received below-inflation pay rises over a number of years that have seen a significant real-terms loss of pay in the face of rising prices for food, heating and other essential goods.

“This year colleges have said they will not offer any cost of living award, our members have told us clearly they are not willing to accept another pay cut and are willing to take action.”

The ballot starts early next month and ends on January 5.