Strike action hits Strathclyde University in pensions dispute

Strike action involving hundreds of Unite members at the University of Strathclyde began today as staff protest proposed changes to their pension scheme.

The industrial action is set to last for two weeks.

The dispute intensified following recent negotiations in which the university revised its initial pension proposals.

However, these latest proposals, which included increases in both one-off and ongoing pension contributions as part of a transition to the Universities Superannuation Scheme (USS), were rejected by Unite members in a vote held on 7th March.

The affected workers are currently part of the Strathclyde Pension Fund (SPF), and many stand to lose significant sums if they are transferred into the USS.

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

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

Sharon Graham, general secretary at Unite 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.