Dundee University members appeal for strike hardship donations

UNISON members at Dundee University appeal for solidarity donations ahead of strike action

UNISON flags

UNISON members at Dundee University who are part of, or are eligible to be part of, the university’s superannuation scheme are taking strike action later this month over the employer’s plans to close and replace the defined benefit CARE scheme with a defined contribution scheme next year.

Affecting around 900 staff on grades one to six, the proposals are set to leave many members in pension poverty and will see some losing up to 40% of their pension. Those on grades higher than six fall under a different, nationally negotiated, scheme.

The university needs to make payments toward the deficit and wants to move all future financial pension risks to members, leaving their financial future uncertain.

Action is initially planned, with 300 members striking, for five days across the start of the new academic year, with pickets each morning as well a rally in Dundee’s City Square at noon on the first day, 29 September.

UNISON Scotland regional organiser, Mo Dickson said: “Back in March, the university promised staff it would listen to feedback and consider ideas.

“UNISON has made a number of proposals which would save the university money and reduce its risks, but these have been rejected at every turn.

“Instead, it continues to insist that its lowest-paid, mainly women workers take on all future pension risks and pay for a situation not of their making.

“We are calling on the university to ditch this proposal and start discussing a fair solution.”

The Dundee University Branch is asking for donations from branches to the hardship fund.

Please donate via bank transfer to:

UNISON Dundee University 7383 Branch

Sort Code: 60-83-01

Account number: 20033277

Or send a cheque payable to ‘UNISON Dundee University 7383 Branch’ to:

Phil Welsh, University of Dundee, Main Library, Dundee DD1 4HN.