Unite reaction to Dupont’s proposed changes for UK pensions
20 May 2011
Unite, Scotland’s largest trade union, has reacted angrily to
proposals by Dupont Teijin UK Ltd (Dupont) in Dumfries to
drastically change its pension provisions for new staff
employed.
Unite members’ concerns revolve around the decision by the
company to close off its current defined benefits scheme from July
2011 to any new starts. These employees will now go into a new
defined contribution pension scheme.
Unite regional industrial organiser, Andy MacFarlane, said:
“Unite is dismayed and concerned regarding Dupont’s apparent
disregard for the due consultation process. Our representatives
have tried, to no avail, to set up meetings with the appointed
group from the company. However, they are being frustrated by the
lack of information coming back as to whether the company is
prepared to use the consultation period for meaningful discussion
in order to mitigate the detriments, which clearly exist in the
proposals for new employees.
“Our members are also concerned about the future of the existing
defined benefits scheme, which as a result will be left exposed to
future changes which will undoubtedly be at a detriment to our
members.
“We are now calling for an urgent meeting with Dupont’s
management to engage in meaningful talks during this consultation
period.”
Unite’s main areas of concern are:
- The effect to new employees and the detrimental effect it will
have on their overall benefits package
- Lack of information relayed to the trade unions in respect of
the proposed changes
- Lack of any meaningful consultation from the company in respect
of changes and their effect on the existing workforce
- The opportunity for recognised trades unions to become involved
in these discussions
- The effect to the existing Defined Benefits scheme going
forward
ENDS
For further information contact Andy MacFarlane on 01292 430170
or Ashraf Choudhury in the Unite press office on 020 3371 2061 or
07980 224761
