UNIONS have been told strike action over equal pay in Glasgow could lead to deaths if services are withdrawn.

Unison and GMB have announced their members will strike later months for 48 hours over claims the council has failed to make progress on reaching settlements.

Yesterday the Evening Times revealed the strike dates on October 22 and 23 which will hit schools and home care services with around 8000 members expected to take part in the industrial action.

Annemarie O’Donnell, chief executive Of Glasgow City Council warned of the consequences of staff walking out for two days.

In a letter responding to the unions she wrote: “You must know that this will at best have a profound effect on the care of some of the most vulnerable people in our city and at worst result in loss of life.”

The strike could see Cordia home care visits stop for two days with some people in need of four visits a day for help with eating, washing and dressing.

There are fears that people who are due to leave hospital will be delayed because there will be no home support services and others at home may need to call 999 during the strike.

Union said for the most in need there could be arrangements put in place for ‘life and limb’ cover.

Brian Smith, Glasgow Branch organiser of Unison said: “The Chief social Work Officer should make a request that will be treated with the utmost seriousness.”

The council also said it would be halting negotiations until the unions withdrew its threat of strike action.

It will continue to negotiate with Unite and Action $ Equality for settlements for their claimants.

Ms O’Donnell said: “As you are aware the council has committed to putting forward an offer in December for discussion and negotiation following more intensive negotiations to begin shortly.

“Your decision to take strike action shows a complete disregard for that process and an intent to seek resolution through very damaging industrial action.”

Rhea Wolfson of GMB, said: “For the council to shut down the possibility of negotiations that could avoid strike action doesn’t only lack credibility of their part, it’s also a signal of intent.

“Our women won’t be held to ransom or bullied into settling for less than they deserve by the same people who have tried to dodge justice for the last decade.”