MORE than 150 workers at Orgeon Timber Frame in Selkirk who manufacture kit houses for the construction industry will see a 4 per cent rise in their basic pay and the restoration of a service bonus scheme. 

The deal, announced by their union Unite today, amounts to an overall increase of 4.8 per cent in a region with some of the lowest pay in Scotland.

Unite also secured the introduction of a company sick pay scheme and paid leave to attend medical appointments.

Welcoming the deal and the workers’ vote to approve it, Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “A good pay rise has been secured but also important workplace benefits are being introduced. 

“The overall package will see a significant boost to jobs, pay and conditions for Oregon timber workers in Selkirk secured by Unite.” 

Unite industrial officer Esther O’Hara added: “The pay deal was overwhelmingly backed by the Oregon timber workers. It’s a significant win for Unite in the Scottish Borders.”