Third round of strike action to take place at Dundee University

UNISON members at Dundee University who are part of, or are eligible to be part of the university’s superannuation scheme are taking further strike action over proposed changes to the scheme.

This will be the third round of action for members, in response to plans which would affect around 900 staff on grades one to six. Those on higher grades would not be affected as they fall under a different, nationally negotiated, scheme.

The university needs to make payments towards the pension deficit and wants to move future financial pension risks to staff. The proposals, which have shifted slightly since the first round of strike action, will see members working longer, paying more and receiving less.

Action is initially planned, with 300 members striking, for seven days across the exam period, with pickets each morning as well a rally in Dundee on 18 April. There will then be a further three weeks of selective action.

UNISON Scotland regional organiser Mo Dickson said: “The university promised staff it would listen to feedback and consider ideas. Whilst they have decided not to close the scheme to everyone, our members will not accept the proposals on the table. The scheme will still close to new staff.

“UNISON has made a number of suggestions which would save the university money and reduce its risks, but these continue to be rejected.

“Instead, it continues to insist that its lowest paid, mainly women workers take on the majority of future pension risks and pay for a situation not of their making. The university’s proposals will see them making changes to their current scheme with no plans to mitigate against the age or sex discrimination highlighted in their own equality impact assessment.

“We are calling on the university to listen to their staff, our members, and enhance their proposals. Our members deserve better.”

The University of Dundee branch is asking for further donations from branches to the hardship fund.