HUNDREDS of University of Dundee staff are striking for the third time over a pensions row.
Unison members have rejected proposed changes to their pension which they say would leave them 40% worse off in their retirement and decided to rally outside the university on Monday, during the students’ exam period.
The university told STV News it is disappointed by the staff’s decision to strike.
A spokesperson for the university said: "We are disappointed that UNISON have moved to further industrial action regarding proposed changes to the University of Dundee Superannuation Scheme (UODSS) despite progress made during extensive discussions with the campus unions that followed strike action held last year.
“These discussions were very constructive and although the University and the unions did not reach full agreement on all elements, a competitive offer was made which presents existing scheme members with real choice and provides for a dignified retirement for all. This proposal was supported by the University Court, our governing body, and formal consultation will commence shortly.
“The industrial action by UNISON covers the period leading up to and including student examinations, a crucial time of the academic year. We will do all we can to mitigate the impact of strike action on students, so that they have access to the facilities and support they may need.”
University of Dundee Unison branch secretary Phil Welsh said: “The University promised to listen to workers following our industrial action last Autumn.
“Instead, they have produced a proposal which will leave our members having to pay more, get less and retire later, despite the University now being in a very healthy cash position.
“There are affordable, sustainable options out there which the university management refuses to consider for our lower-paid, mostly female members.
“Yet they would never accept this kind of pension offer for themselves.
“Our members have accepted the need for change. However, we call on the university management to make a more realistic offer which will afford our members some modicum of dignity in retirement.”
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