RCM joins pension strike talks

Representatives from the RCM are meeting other trade unions to discuss the first ever NHS-wide strike.

Talks are taking place this afternoon to discuss industrial action, should pension reform negotiations with the government collapse.

Unions representing midwives, doctors, nurses, administrators and cleaners are gathering at Unison’s headquarters in London.

The RCM is involved in the talks, but currently has no plans in place for industrial action.

RCM employment relations advisor Denise Linay said: ‘We are meeting with the other trade unions to have a talk.

‘We’ve also commissioned a company to do some research on members’ opinions of the pension scheme.

‘We are looking at the strength of feeling, but we have no plans as of yet.’

Among the issues being discussed are the provision of emergency cover and whether strikes would breach some workers’ contracts.

Christina McAnea, Unison’s secretary for health, said ‘it almost feels…inevitable’ that there will be industrial action.

Talks between union leaders and ministers over pension reforms are due to continue until October, but there is currently no sign of an agreement being reached.

The Department of Health said ‘constructive’ pension reform talks will continue and the NHS pension would remain strong even after the reforms, which would protect the lowest-paid workers.