DONCASTER Council workers called on local authority leaders today to reverse a long-standing pay cut that has left them earning significantly less than nearby colleagues.

The workers demand a reversal of wage reductions introduced in 2012, when Doncaster Council cut salaries by up to 2.5 per cent as part of austerity measures. 

The cut was introduced with a pledge to review it annually, but was never restored.

Trade union GMB, representing the affected workers, said Doncaster’s pay rates have lagged behind those in neighbouring Barnsley, Rotherham and Sheffield ever since. 

It also noted that the highest paid senior management grades were not subject to the 2012 cut.

GMB organiser Sarah Barnes said: “For more than 13 years Donny workers have earned less than their colleagues across South Yorkshire. It’s simply not good enough.

“Everyone loses: GMB members are thousands of pounds out of pocket — as well as losing holiday days — while the council is struggling to recruit and keep staff.

“It’s time for Doncaster Council to make things right and restore this pay without delay.”

The council was approached for comment.