Dundee City Council Calls for Pension Dignity at the University of Dundee

 

Showing support for workers on the picket line
this morning

On Monday evening at Dundee City Council's Policy and Resources Committee I moved a motion in support of workers taking strike action at the University of Dundee over changes to their pension provision.  I was very pleased that the council spoke with one voice and declared its support for the workers in struggle.  Dignity in retirement is important.

You can read the motion here.

After hearing excellent deputations from James Rourke of Unite, Sarah Ashworth of Unison and Sarah Browne of Unite the council considered the issue. 

It is important to think about the impact of the proposed changes from the University of Dundee to the pensions of some of the poorer paid staff at the university which will impact on a predominantly female work force.  Workers face having thousands of pounds less in retirement each year.  This is obviously an issue for those workers but it is also an issue for the wider economy of the city.  These workers are mostly local and will mostly remain in Dundee in retirement.

 

As a local councillor, as a graduate of the University of Dundee and as a former employee I want to acknowledge the importance of the University of Dundee to my ward and to the wider city and region.  It is a force for good in our region providing good jobs and educational opportunities for many people in our communities.

It is disappointing to see proposals brought froward which will impact on the pension income of already existing workers.  I want Dundee University to be a good employer, to treat its employees well and ensure that they have dignity in retirement.

 

It is not the council's job to negotiate here but we do have a role as civic leaders to say to the University of Dundee we want you to be a good employer, to lead by example.

 

I want the University of Dundee to engage in meaningful negotiations with Unite, Unison and UCU to ensure that a fair and just settlement can be found to this situation.

 

I was really pleased that the motion which I moved and which was seconded by my colleague Michael Marra was supported unanimously.  It was important to send the message that the council stands with these workers.

I was really pleased to get along to the picket line this morning to pass on the news and thank those who took part in the deputations last night.