Unions step up pensions battle

Unison Scotland president Lilian Macer told STUC delegates in Inverness: "We rose up as a trade union movement on November 30 to defend our pensions. I have to tell you, it was the best day of my trade union life.

"But this fight is not over. The STUC must continue its pensions justice campaign and support those affiliated unions who remain in dispute to secure fair pensions for all.

"As a result of Unison strike action last month, Nicola Sturgeon came to the table with us for new discussions. We have no red lines - but I can assure you of one thing - Danny Alexander, the local MP here in Inverness, will not determine the terms of our talks.

"And if the force of argument fails to deliver - we will use the argument of force."

PCS president Janice Godrich said: "The real reason the government wants to cut our pensions is to allow the private sector to come in and run public services - it's all for the benefit of their friends in the boardrooms.

"Danny Alexander confirmed this when he said 'the new pensions will be substantially more affordable to other service providers.'

"Public-sector workers will be paying the new pension contributions from this month - but it's not too late to take action.

"Our planned strike on 15 May is not just a protest - it is part of a programme of action aimed at forcing the government into real negotiations - not the sham of the 'heads of agreement' placed in front of us before Christmas."

Fire Brigades Union delegate Alan Paterson called on delegates to support the campaign. He said: "Any intention to extend the working life of our members purely for cost reasons is dangerously irresponsible.

"Who would be content to have an ageing firefighter respond to emergency calls? It is just crazy."

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