MORE than 500 union members have responded to a ballot on a vote of no confidence in the chief executive of Pembrokeshire County Council called by three unions representing workers at County Hall.

Members of UNISON, Unite and the GMB will also protest outside County Hall tomorrow (Friday) over the “catalogue of failures and concerns” while under the leadership of Bryn Parry-Jones.

The move comes after it was revealed that Gloucestershire police are to carry out a new investigation into new evidence received in relation to the controversial 'unlawful' pension payments made to Mr Parry-Jones and another senior council officer.

Union members are unhappy that Mr Parry-Jones remains in post while the allegations are investigated.

Vic Dennis, UNISON Branch Secretary, said: “Ballot papers went out to all our members in Pembrokeshire last week and the speed and size of response has been overwhelming.

“We have already received over 500 responses and many members are on annual leave. The early indications are that the majority of UNISON members employed by PCC will confirm that they have lost trust and confidence in their Chief Officer.

“We have never had such an immediate and overpowering response to a ballot on any other issue.

“This is in direct response to calls from our respective membership to have their voices heard in relation to numerous failings in Pembrokeshire County Council. The continuing pension debacle is the last straw for our members, many of whom now say they are embarrassed to admit they work for PCC.

“The action is taking place at lunch time so members are at liberty to register their protest and we trust that no pressure is put on them not to walk out.”

“It is not only trade union members who welcome this opportunity to show their feelings but the community as a whole. We now ask them to join us on Friday August 8 at 12:30 to show their strength of feeling.”

A spokesman for Pembrokeshire County Council said they had no comment to make on the unions' plans.