PUBLIC service union Unison has won backing for a list of top priorities for council staff in Wales from more than 100 candidates in today’s municipal elections.

Unison Cymru/Wales said the priorities cover eight key areas, including bringing privatised services back under direct council control, and, in particular, an end to the use of privateers to provide social care.

The union also wants an end to “the scandalous system of only paying school support staff during term time.”

Others priorities include building new council houses and tackling climate change.

The union said 117 candidates had committed themselves to the priorities.

Lianne Dallimore, Unison Cymru/Wales local government chairwoman, said it was fantastic “to see so many candidates pledging their support to our top priorities.”

She added: “This election is vitally important to ensure we protect our incredible public services and the working conditions of those who provide them.”