Asda is being urged to rethink proposed pension cuts by the trade union, Usdaw, after 2,000 staff signed a petition against the changes.

Usdaw and Asda are entering talks today (15 February 2018), and the trade union is hoping the supermarket giant will heed to calls from 1,928 Northern Irish staff members as “feelings are running high”.

Asda is currently undergoing a 60 day consultation on changes which could mean staff have less choice about saving for their retirement, changes to the death in service provision, as well as their contributions not being matched by the firm.

Usdaw area organiser, Michala Lafferty, said: “Usdaw is the trade union for Asda staff in Northern Ireland, who are outraged by the company’s proposals. Feelings are running high, which is demonstrated by us collecting so many petition signatures in just over a week.

“Staff are still signing up to voice their opposition to the plans to worsen their pension and life assurance employee benefit package and call on the company to withdraw the proposals.”

Furthermore, proposed changes in the death in service provision will reduce four times pay to one times pay for all employees, the union said.

“Pensions are not a bonus or gift – they are based on earnings and are effectively deferred wages. Usdaw believes it is an entitlement and we view this proposal as nothing more than a wage cut.

“At today's meeting, Usdaw will be calling on Asda to withdraw these changes and engage in meaningful talks to find a way forward.”

Last month, Usdaw called proposed changes to the Asda pension scheme are a “slap in the face” to its members.

An Asda spokesperson said: “We are currently consulting with our colleagues on proposals to amend our pensions scheme. We are taking all comments and feedback on these proposals seriously before any final decisions are made.”

Share Story: