NEW pay structures have been confirmed for more than half the staff at Richmondshire District Council.

Up to 57 per cent are due pay rises as a result of a review of the wage structure within the authority, and they can expect a rise from April.

However, about 13 per cent of the council's staff will be no better off while a third can expect to see their wage cut.

Under an agreement reached with the union, Unison, in 1999, the council will soften the blow for staff whose pay is to be reduced.

Their wages will be topped up on a reduced percentage over the next three years, with further help offered to anyone likely to lose five per cent of their pay after that.

Any staff aged 40 and above whose wages are reduced will also be issued with a Certificate of Protection for their pension to protect salary levels that are increased in line with inflation.

The document will be valid for ten years and, if a member of staff retires before then, they can use the higher rate of pay for their pension calculation.

"The resulting pay structure will ensure staff are paid fairly in relation to each other, and that salaries are broadly competitive," said the council's executive director, Tony Clark.

"This should also go some way to addressing the issue of staff retention and recruitment."