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Ballot on pensions at EDF

A majority of members will experience either no change to their pension arrangements or be better off particularly our women members in the call centres says GMB.

A workplace ballot is currently underway for GMB members in EDF energy on a proposed agreement on pensions covering over 15,000 staff across EDF. The new proposed new agreement covers the workforce from Nuclear Engineers, meter readers to call centre staff. See notes to editors for copy of Joint Statement following Trades Union Pension Forum on 15 October 2015 on Pension Benefit Reform:

GMB senior representatives are recommending a Yes vote on the agreement. The ballot closes on 4th December. See notes to editors for copy of GMB circular to members on the ballot.

Eamon O Hearn Large, National Officer, said “Last year the Company threatened GMB with de-recognition when we publicised they were planning to close one of three of their final salary pension schemes (they have 3), cap pensionable increases at 1% and introduce a defined contributions scheme for all new entrants.

GMB campaigned and led negotiations to secure the retention of all three schemes, a 1% cap on salaries above £64,456 and the introduction of a new defined benefit Career Average Revalued Earnings (CARE) scheme for new entrants.

CARE is a defined benefit pension scheme that guarantees a certain pension on retirement.

The CARE scheme is potentially more beneficial for the majority of GMB members. A majority of GMB members will experience either no change to their pension arrangements or be better off particularly our women members in the call centres.

It is thanks to the steadfastness of GMB members and their determination to hold onto secure pensions that EDF will now be one of few companies in the UK with an open defined benefit pension scheme to new entrants. Too many other companies took the easy route and threw responsibility back to the state and taxpayers to provide income in retirement for their staff.”

Posted: 9th November 2015

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