Zarah ChoudharyStrike 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.
“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.”
Alison MacLean, regional coordinating officer at Unite, 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.”
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.”
