University of Strathclyde workers to strike in dispute over pensions

Workers at the University of Strathclyde represented by Unite are to launch a two-week strike in a dispute over pensions, affecting laboratories and halls of residence.

The union blamed management for a “shameful” row about a change of pension provider, with cleaners, plumbers and security staff set to walk out on Monday, impacting on cleaning and maintenance services along with security.

The latest proposals, including increases in one-off and ongoing pension contributions as part of the proposed transfer into an “inferior superannuation scheme”, were rejected by Unite members on Friday and described as “attacking some of its poorest-paid workers”.

However, the university said Unison has accepted the proposal.

Striking workers are currently part of the Strathclyde Pension Fund (SPF) with many standing to “lose thousands of pounds” if they are transferred out of the scheme into the Universities Superannuation Scheme (USS), the union said.

Unite claimed the move is a “shameful cash grab” to access a pension surplus despite the overall financial position being “healthy and robust”.

General secretary Sharon Graham said: “This is nothing but a shameful cash grab on the pensions of hard working and loyal workers some of whom have spent their whole working lives at the university.

“Our members have been left with no option but to take a stand and they will have Unite’s full support in their fight for pension dignity.”

Trades staff taking strike action will lead to a lack of joiners, electricians and plumbers who deal with leaks, lighting and gas issues in university buildings, it was warned.

Technicians involved in strike action will further impact on student learning in labs.

Alison MacLean, Unite regional coordinating officer, said: “Cleaners, plumbers and security staff are all having to strike to protect their hard earned retirement. Contrast these dedicated workers with the extremely well-paid people in Strathclyde University’s management team scheming to ram through these detrimental proposals.

“Make no mistake our members stand to lose thousands of pounds in their retirement. Yet this attack doesn’t need to happen.

“Overall Strathclyde University has a robust and healthy financial position.

“The management team is attacking some of its poorest-paid workers while exorbitant executive pay remains untouched. Unite will not accept this and we will fight these proposals every step of the way.”

Pickets will take place across the campus throughout the dispute including at the Royal College, Teaching Learning and Technology and Innovation Centre, with a rally on Friday at 9.30am at the main campus on Rottenrow Hill.

A spokesperson for the University of Strathclyde said: “We are delighted that Unison members have accepted our proposal for a change of pension provider.

“While we are disappointed Unite members have chosen to take strike action, the university will take all necessary steps to ensure this action has minimal impact on our students, staff and operations.

“The university remains committed to providing an excellent pension provision to its staff.”