I am deeply affected by the recent reversal of the decision by Neath Port Talbot County Borough Council (NPTCBC) to restore leisure services under its control. As a staff member, I experience firsthand the unfair disparity in wages compared to our counterparts in NPTCBC. In fact, two years ago, the NPTCBC Committee voted in favour of returning the services to the Council, a glimmer of hope that was snuffed out when they recently changed their minds. The initial annoucement of outsourcing Celtic Leisure was made in March 2020 so this has been hanging over us for four years.

This reversal not only affects Celtic Leisure staff pensions and salaries but also impacts NPTCBC taxpayers, who have been charged extra on their council tax for this transition. Will these additional costs be refunded if the reassignment does not proceed?

It is unjust to allow commitments to be disregarded and overturned without consideration for the people it affects. We need to hold NPTCBC accountable for their actions and demand that they uphold the promises made to us. We urge NPTCBC to reconsider its decision and fulfil its commitment to Celtic Leisure staff and taxpayers by reinstating Leisure Services under its direct management.

See links -

https://democracy.npt.gov.uk/documents/s101683/Celtic%20Leisure%20cabinet%20Oct%202024%20v5.pdf​

https://democracy.npt.gov.uk/documents/s83761/Leisure%20Services%20insourcing%20Update%20report.pdf?LLL=1​

https://beta.npt.gov.uk/council-democracy-elections/budget-and-spending/the-budget-2024-25-explained/how-the-budget-is-spent/#section_e044cdf6-bead-41fb-a2b9-52839beacb06_c100d556-4c62-4eb3-8e38-f85448b829a1

https://beta.npt.gov.uk/council-tax/your-council-tax-2024-2025-explained/#:~:text=Council%20Tax%20levels%202024%2D25&text=subsidy%20to%20Celtic%20Leisure%20to,of%20running%20council%20services%20%2D%204.66%25

Please lend your voice to our cause by signing this petition. Let's remind NPTCBC that they should prioritise the wellbeing and mental health of Celtic Leisure staff and the value for money of their taxpayers. Together, we can make a difference. Sign this petition today. Please don’t forget to verify your email address or your vote won’t register. Thanks