STAFF from Bangor University are staging a Pensions Rally today (Monday) as part of strike action to defend their pensions.

The striking staff and supporters will march from Bangor University’s Main Arts Building, leaving at 12noon and will walk towards the Town Clock, arriving at about 1pm.

They will be addressed by Ll?r Gryffudd AM and Trade Union representatives.

The lecturers and other professionals who are represented by the UCU Union are taking part in a national UK dispute over proposed changes to the USS pensions scheme.

According to the calculations provided by supporters, the changes could see expected pensions being slashed, especially for younger members.

Speaking on behalf of striking staff at Bangor University, Local UCU Branch President, Penny Dowdney said:

“We are pleased that Universities UK (UUK) and the Union are meeting with the conciliation service, ACAS today (March 5) to try to bring an end to the disruptive strike action currently affecting 61 universities.

“We are reluctant to strike, but have felt compelled to take action in the face of damaging cuts to pensions, which not only damage our own retirement incomes, but will also make university employment less attractive to the best talent available.”

As well as the Rally, members of Bangor branch of the UCU have also arranged a series of ‘Teach- Outs’ on strike days (March 5-8 and March 13-19).

Lecturers and students will be sharing their knowledge in a series of talks and workshops and a film screening, which are free and open to everyone.

Details are on the Twitter and Facebook page @UCU_Bangor and UCU Prifysgol Bangor / Bangor University UCU.

The Union has also decided to fundraise for Bangor’s homeless sleepers. They have set up a Just Giving Page https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/bucu-homeless?utm_id=1&utm_term=583RZ36VD and are encouraging members and supporters to donate much needed warm and waterproof clothes and shoes and sleeping materials to St Mary’s Hostel in Bangor.