Protect our members' pensions

(15/04/2010) UNISON has gained a commitment that Labour will honour the agreements on public sector pensions - which have protected thousands of public service workers' pension arrangements.

Dave Prentis, UNISON general secretary said: "Pensions are a massive issue for our members. Public service workers work long and hard in return for often poor salaries because they believe in the service they provide. Ensuring they have a decent retirement free from poverty is the mark of a civilised society."

In 2005, the current government agreed a continued commitment to "good quality, index-linked, sustainable, defined-benefit pensions and to consult fully with members' representatives in taking pension reforms forward" with the TUC public services forum after pressure from UNISON.

With both Tories and the Liberal Democrats making noises about public sector pensions not being sustainable, Labour's commitment could be vital for public service workers.

This week Chief Secretary to the Treasury, Liam Byrne, wrote personally to Dave Prentis to confirm that Labour remains committed to this agreement, adding "I am writing to you as chair of the TUC Public Services Liaison Group and because you and UNISON played such a significant part in reaching the... agreement on public sector pensions.

"That agreement has been essential in achieving a vital partnership approach between government and unions in delivering substantial reforms to public sector pensions. Labour will be building on the progress to date with its continued commitment."

UNISON's Million Voices for Public Services campaign

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