Strathclyde University staff plan two-week strike over pension dispute

Hundreds of workers at the University of Strathclyde are set to strike for two weeks starting March 10 due to proposed changes to their pension scheme that they argue would significantly reduce their retirement benefits. The union, Unite, claims the university is attempting a 'cash grab' by moving employees into a less favorable superannuation scheme to access a £100 million pension surplus. The workers, including technicians, cleaners, and maintenance staff, were not consulted prior to the pension proposal changes, prompting the strike action. Unite general secretary Sharon Graham emphasized that the university's actions have left workers with no option but to strike, expressing frustration over the university's lack of communication and negotiation. The union has called for intervention from the Scottish Government, criticizing the university for not adhering to Fair Work principles despite receiving public funds. University representatives expressed disappointment over the decision to strike, claiming they had engaged in extensive consultation over the pension changes.