Glasgow Caledonian University staff to strike over job cuts

Staff at Glasgow Caledonian University are set to go on strike after talks failed to resolve a dispute over job cuts.

Around 100 jobs are at risk at the university as the institution looks to make £10m in savings over the next year.

The university said the decision follows a £33m loss of income over two years, which it has described as “not sustainable”.

Planned industrial action by UNISON members was suspended to allow for negotiations, which the union says has failed to produce an agreement protecting staff from compulsory redundancies.

Support staff, including IT workers, security, catering and student welfare, are due to walk out on Thursday.

UNISON Glasgow Caledonian University branch secretary Davena Rankin said: “These talks were a missed opportunity to resolve this dispute and avoid industrial action.

“A fair proposal put forward by the union to remove the immediate threat of job losses was rejected and the university remains intent on pursuing compulsory redundancies.

“With 100 jobs at risk, the absence of the principal when these critical talks were taking place will be deeply disappointing to these hard-working staff.

“Strike action is always a last resort. We know how difficult this will be for students and colleagues, but we also know the devastating impact these redundancies could have on students and services if they go ahead.

“The university must recognise the strength of feeling in its workforce, reconsider compulsory redundancies and work with staff to find a fairer way forward. The union is committed to finding a resolution to this dispute.”

UNISON Scotland regional manager Simon Macfarlane added: “These experienced staff play a crucial role in keeping the university running and supporting students.

“Losing up to 100 jobs would put even more pressure on those who remain and damage the services students depend on.

“Workers want to get back to their jobs, rather than standing on a picket line. But the university must value their contribution, protect the vital services they provide and give them some security over their livelihoods.

“The university must take compulsory redundancies off the table.”

A spokesperson for Glasgow Caledonian said it is “disappointed” that staff have voted to strike.

“If we are to continue to deliver for our students, we must remain on a sound financial footing, which unfortunately means making difficult decisions now,” the spokesperson said.

“Our door remains open and we are willing to continue discussions with the trade unions where there is a realistic prospect of resolving the dispute. In the meantime, we are putting plans in place to minimise disruption to students.”