Support for Pension Dignity at the University of Dundee

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Withdraw the threat of Compulsory Redundancies at the University of Dundee

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On the picket line with UCU members at Dundee University last year
I have written to the University of Dundee and the Scottish Government calling on them to withdraw the threat of compulsory redundancies from staff at the University of Dundee.  I recently spoke with President of Dundee University Students' Association (DUSA), Scott Quinn, and representatives from the Dundee University branch of the University and College Union (UCU).  The University of Dundee is threatening up to 34 redundancies and the merger of three schools into one to make up a financial shortfall.


As a local councillor it was good to meet with representatives from DUSA and the local UCU.  I am always very concerned to hear about threats of compulsory redundancies.  As a trade unionist I am calling on the University of Dundee to withdraw this threat and look to come to a settlement with the workforce rather than get involved in a damaging dispute.  The threat of 34 job losses in the middle of a pandemic is particularly unwelcome.  I hope that the University of Dundee will listen to the unions which represent staff and students and find a way forward that does not lead to job losses, and which does not lead to compulsory redundancies.

I am appalled at the threat of compulsory redundancies - this is not the way to negotiate with trade unions.

I have written to the University of Dundee raising my concerns and asking that they seek a way to find a solution to the problem without job losses and losses to courses.  I have also written to Richard Lochhead MSP, the Minister for Higher Education, asking that the Scottish Government does all in its power to prevent compulsory job losses at the University of Dundee.

I am looking for action from both the University of Dundee and from the Scottish Government to prevent compulsory job losses and to ensure that the University of Dundee continues to offer a broad range of courses which suits the needs of local students and also attracts students to Dundee from all parts of the world.