College staff could strike after mediation fails

Staff will hold an official ballot on whether or not to strike

Teachers at a college could strike in the coming months, as a union said attempts at mediation had gone unanswered.

Staff members at LIPA Sixth Form College voted in favour of industrial action in an indicative vote in June, and will now formally vote on whether or not to proceed with strikes planned for late November and December.

The National Education Union (NEU) said "despite repeated attempts" to speak to the college about ongoing staff concerns, they had received no response.

A college spokesperson said: "There have been a number of recent meetings with staff across the group – our doors remain open for positive dialogue."

'Completely incommunicado'

The union in June said staff and students had raised concerns including leaky roofs, mouldy carpets and unreliable IT systems at the college and its associated primary and high school.

It also said staff workload had "surged".

NEU regional officer Bora Oktas said: "Despite repeated attempts to engage with the employer, including phone calls, emails, and letters, there has been no response.

"This is the first time I have seen an employer go completely incommunicado with the union that represents their workers."

In response, a college spokesperson said: "A lot of positive change and action has been undertaken in recent months.

"We are saddened by the decision to proceed to a formal ballot," they added.