Union to set up new pensioners’ body
THE NUJ is to set up a new pensioners body that will be open to all members over 60. The organisation — as yet unnamed — will campaign on the issues that affect the quality of life for pensioners.
It will have plenty to campaign about. 2008 was the 100th anniversary of the basic state pension — which is now worth 10 per cent less in terms of average earnings than it was then, and is the worst in Europe.
Private pensions are being cut back or closed down, so today’s younger NUJ members — tomorrow’s pensioners — are likely to face a longer working life.
The new organisation will be a research, PR and writing volunteer force and will be led by the union’s Pensioners Committee — a six-strong group elected at the annual conference to attend the UK’s Pensioners Parliament. The organisation will meet for the first time at this year’s annual conference at Southport in November.
Anyone interested in taking part should contact the chair of the Pensioners Committee, Pat Healy.