The 11 staff have already taken part in a strike earlier this month, which according to reports is a result of a dispute over plans to restructure the print room.  

It is understood that council management have been outsourcing print work, which would normally have been done in-house, after print staff started working to rule and refused overtime work.

However, Aberdeenshire Council has defended the review as being in-line with its policy and procedures, with one grievance and a subsequent appeal not upheld.

A spokesman for the council said: "In the current financial climate it is very important we ensure services are as efficient as possible, and we feel our print service should be no exception.

"The service has not been reviewed for many years and could be far more efficient, and available to other public sector agencies at competitive rates."

He said the proposals are expected to save the council £100,000 in the first year, and will help to generate more than £200,000 in additional income.

"This is money that will be used to protect frontline services, which we know is a priority for our residents."