Up to 300 members of UNISON began a one-month strike at Dundee University this morning.
The industrial action has been launched over ‘local pension changes’.
The strike follows similar action in March involving the UCU trade union.
Commenting on the UNISON walk-out, Dundee branch secretary, Phil Welsh, told Dundee Live last week his members were ‘furious’.
He claimed pension changes will affect approximately 900 ‘professional services’ staff including those who work in administration, library assistants, security, cleaners, PAs and receptionists.
He confirmed members will be picketing everyday from today at Tower building, with a rally planned at McManus Galleries at midday.
He told us: “Basically our lowest paid staff here at Dundee Uni are bring forced to resume industrial action due to senior management who earn in excess of 150k per year slaughtering the local UoDSS pension, effectively plunging hundreds of loyal staff into a retirement of poverty.
“Strike action is always a last resort but our members are furious.
“They are being asking to pay more, get less and retire later (68) which is not even in line with the state pension age.
“We urge the University to come back with a solid realistic offer.”
In response, a spokesperson for the University of Dundee said: “We are disappointed that UNISON have moved to further industrial action despite progress made during extensive discussions with the campus unions that followed the 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.”
**Don't miss the latest headlines from around Dundee and Tayside. Sign up to our newsletters here .
And did you know Dundee Live is on Facebook? Head over to our page to give us a like and a share .
