SIPTU members employed in Marks & Spencer stores have voted 100% in favour of industrial action and by 97.5% to 2.5% in favour of strike action following the company’s decision to unilaterally closethe 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 31s tOctober without discussion or agreement with the union. The workers feel they have been left with no option but to take industrial action.” He added: “There was no meaningful discussion 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.” SIPTU members in Marks and Spencer will conduct industrial action through a series of one day stoppages on Saturday, 7th December, Thursday, 12th December and Friday, 20th December.
SIPTU members in Marks & Spencer vote for strike action
