A "SHABBY" decision to cut the pensions of some of Bangor University's lowest paid staff has been slammed by a union.

The university announced it is to cut the pensions of clerical workers; IT staff; lab workers; cleaners; caterers and security staff whilst pensions of higher paid employees, such as lecturers and executive managers are not affected.

UNISON says by targeting non-academic staff, Bangor has shown "how little it values" the role of support workers.

"The university claims the measure is a result of increasing pension costs, but UNISON says the pension scheme is performing well.

Wendy Allison, UNISON Cymru Wales regional organiser said,

“It’s pretty shabby to cut the pensions of only your lowest paid staff. The prestige of the university is built by all of its employees but Bangor is treating support staff as second-class employees.

“Pensions are deferred wages which people have worked hard to receive. Bangor executives are ploughing ahead with all sorts of important decisions without listening to staff or unions.

In a statement the University said: it was "committed " to offering a "sustainable level"of future benefit to staff through the Local Pension Scheme.

"Changes proposed in this consultation will enable the University to continue to provide a very competitive local pension scheme and although changes need to be made to made, they will only affect future benefits.

"The proposed changes only relate to pension that is earned after the date any changes are implemented, and do not affect anyone that has already retired or left.

"Given the increases in costs of such pension promises and longer life-expectancies, the University has been in discussions with Trade Unions since last July and has made a proposal to members which is currently being consulted upon.

"The University is open to alternative suggestions and looks forward to further discussions with unions and staff in the coming weeks."