11.04.12
Unison ballots members for pension reform
NHS workers will begin voting today on whether to accept the Government’s pension reforms. A ‘no’ vote could trigger more strikes and follows the National Union of Teachers and the NASUWT voting for industrial action.
Speculation concerning strikes has suggested May 10 as a possible date.
The Government suggests pension reform is necessary to cope with the rapidly ageing and growing population, yet health professionals argue that the changes are unfair and will leave staff working longer for a lower pension.
Unison is beginning the ballot of its members today and the result will be known at the end of April.
Christina McAnea, Unison’s head of health, said: “The union will be giving full and open information on what it will mean for individual members’ pensions, so they are in the best position to make an informed decision.
“We are still disappointed that the proposals don’t meet all our aspirations for health workers, particularly around the retirement age. But the ballot papers will also recognise that rejecting the offer would require members to take further industrial action.
“We have given a commitment from day one that it is for our members to decide and we are keeping to that commitment. This is a massive consultation exercise far bigger than any other in the trade union movement.”
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