SIPTU members employed in Marks & Spencer stores will conduct a one-day strike action on Saturday (7th December) in opposition to a management decision to unilaterally close the workers’ defined benefit pension scheme. SIPTU Organiser, Neil McGowan, said: “SIPTU represents approximately 140 workers employed in Marks & Spencer stores across the Dublin area. The workers are disgusted at the decision of the management of Marks & Spencer to close their defined benefit pension scheme on 31st October without discussion or agreement with the union. The workers also believe thatmanagement at the company has acted in a disingenuous manner by issuing statements claiming that it wishes to meet workers’ representatives to resolve the issues in dispute when this has not actually been the case.” He added: “There were no meaningful discussions with union representatives in relation to the closure of the pension scheme, with management taking the view that the scheme is a ‘discretionary benefit’. The company has failed to provide satisfactory evidence to support its claims in relation to the pension scheme and cuts to other benefits. These include plans to cut workers’ premiums and Christmas bonus. At all times the workers’ trade union representatives have been willing to enter into meaningful talks.” SIPTU members in Marks and Spencer voted last month to conduct industrial action through a series of one-day stoppages on Saturday, 7th December, Thursday, 12th December and Friday, 20th December.
SIPTU members strike at Marks and Spencer
