The government and the LGA have accepted that the LGPS is different from the other public sector pension schemes because it is a funded scheme and has assets of around £140 billion at current prices.There are some key points of agreement between the LGPS unions and the LGA:
• No change until 2014 - avoiding any change before the 2013 valuation
• Prevention of opt outs and maximising of membership to keep the scheme sustainable
• Independent and robust equality proofing at every stage
• Adequate time for unions and employers to consult at key stages of the process
There have been NO negotiations on the detail of future contributions or the design of the new scheme, though they will start in earnest in January, with a view to Regulations being laid in time for the 2013 valuation.
On the 20th December, the local government trade unions, UNISON, UNITE and GMB, suspended the agreement after being alarmed by the response from Eric Pickles, to the joint proposal from the unions and the Local Government Association (LGA), for reforming the local government pension scheme.
We now understand the Secretary of State’s response has subsequently been withdrawn. In light of this confusion, agreement has been suspended, and the unions are now seeking an urgent meeting with the government to establish an agreed way forward.
We will provide more information to members as soon as we get it in the New Year.
In the meantime we wish you a happy Christmas and New Year from all the Officers, Staff and Stewards of the Barnsley Branch of UNISON.
The Office closes on Friday 23rd December and re-opens on Tuesday 3rd January 2012, should any member need urgent assistance during that period please contact UNISON Direct on 0845 355 0845