Staff at the University of Dundee have voted to take strike action in response to the institution's plans to cut jobs, a move aimed at addressing a looming financial deficit of £30 million. The decision follows a ballot organized by the University and College Union (UCU) Scotland, where 74% of members supported the strike on a 64% turnout. This comes as the university grapples with what has been described as "an extremely challenging period" for the UK's higher education sector.
The university employs over 3,000 individuals, and the proposed job cuts have provoked significant concern among staff. Principal Professor Iain Gillespie had previously communicated to staff that job losses were "inevitable," attributing the situation to the financial strain facing higher education institutions nationwide. Despite implementing a recruitment freeze and reducing operational expenses, the university still anticipates a deficit ranging from £25 million to £30 million.
Prof Gillespie resigned a month after delivering this bleak forecast, following a controversial £7,000 business trip to Hong Kong which the university defended. His departure was not isolated, as other senior management members have also left the institution amidst the unfolding crisis.
"By voting in these numbers UCU members at the University of Dundee have been crystal clear that the university needs to think again about cutting jobs and the use of compulsory redundancies." – Melissa D'Ascenzio
The local branch co-president of UCU, Melissa D'Ascenzio, emphasized the need for the university to reconsider its stance on job cuts and compulsory redundancies. The union argues that such measures will not benefit the institution in the long term. However, with less than 10% of total staff voting for the strike action, university officials remain skeptical about its potential impact.
"We want to work constructively with the unions on building a more sustainable future for the university." – University spokesperson
Despite the tension, a university spokesperson expressed a willingness to collaborate with the unions towards a sustainable future, while also questioning the effectiveness of the strike.
"This action, voted for by less than 10% of our staff, will not help any of us in doing that." – University spokesperson
The university's management has not ruled out compulsory redundancies as it seeks to navigate its financial challenges. Prof Gillespie previously highlighted that decisive action was necessary to ensure the long-term viability of the University of Dundee, cautioning that the upcoming years would be arduous.
