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Union slams ITN's decision on final salary pension scheme

management's handling of this issue will be seen as a slap in the face for staff and their representatives by an arrogant management team 

ITN's decision to close its final salary pension scheme to existing members - effectively stopping staff from accruing further benefits - was communicated to staff this week over the heads of the recognised unions, BECTU and the NUJ.

"The decision, and the announcement, came out of the blue" said BECTU supervisory official, David Beevers.

"There was no contact with the unions beforehand, an omission which deserves every criticism given the importance of the scheme to union members and to staff generally" he continued.

Sources at ITN have also told BECTU  that the pension scheme trustees were not consulted prior to the announcement either.

"We thought the unions had a productive and collaborative relationship with senior ITN management; however management's handling of this issue will be seen as a slap in the face for staff and their representatives by an arrogant management team."

"Pension provision is a critical issue and a key part of the staff's remuneration package albeit as deferred earnings. The closure of the scheme will have a major detrimental effect on the value of members' entitlements and as such should be the subject of detailed consultation and negotiation."

Pension provision has been an long-established part of collective bargaining between management and unions at ITN. Agreed revisions to the scheme took place in 2007.

The unions have sought an urgent meeting with the company's  management.

A mass meeting of members will be held next week and calls for industrial action are expected.

ENDS