MYSTERY OF FISHERMEN’S PENSIONS

Angus MP, Mike Weir has appealed for retired fishermen and their relatives to check as to whether they might be entitled to a pension from a little remembered pension fund that operated for Scottish trawlermen in the 1960s and 1970s.  Norwich Union, which now operates the funds, estimate that around 4,537 fishermen who worked on fishing fleets around the UK have not claimed pensions that are rightfully theirs.

There are a number of schemes around the UK, including two that referred specifically to Scottish fishermen, The Scottish Trawler Fishermen Pension Scheme – Aberdeen and The Scottish Trawler Fishermen Pension Scheme – Edinburgh.

Commenting on the matter Mr Weir said it was scandalous that so many former fishermen had not received the money to which they were entitled.

“It is estimated that around 713 Scottish fishermen or their relatives may be eligible for pensions from the scheme.  I understand that the men had no option but to pay into the scheme with trawler owners also having to pay in.

“It is a complete mystery to me as to why more has not previously been done to try and trace those to whom the money is due.

“Norwich Union state that they only have minimal records which has severely hampered attempts to contact the men to advise them of their outstanding pensions.  I do not know at this stage whether it is likely that any former fishermen from Arbroath or other areas of Angus but it is at least a strong possibility that some may have worked out of Aberdeen during the relevant period.

“I would urge all retired trawlermen and their relatives to check as to whether they have any old papers that relate to the scheme since the company would require proof of membership.  The sums involved will not be large but they should be paid to those that are entitled and not kept by Norwich Union.”

Anyone who has any queries regarding the matter can contact Norwich Union at fishermen@norwich-union.co.uk or by post at Fishermens Pension Scheme, Ref CM203, Six Hills Way, Stevenage SG1 2WH – Tel 01438 732 446.