Strike ballot at Dundee University over proposed job cuts

The UCU previously agreed to a scheme for voluntary redundancies at the university

Staff at Dundee University have announced a ballot over strike action against potential job losses.

Management are seeking to cut 120 posts through targeted redundancies as part of a cost-cutting exercise.

The University and College Union (UCU) had previously agreed to a severance scheme on the condition that it was voluntary and did not target posts.

Earlier this month the university was voted as one of the top 10 in the UK.

The ballot runs from 21 May until 2 June. It asks members whether they are prepared to take industrial action consisting of strike action and action short of strike action.

'Last resort'

The union said the university's job loss plans sat awkwardly alongside the principal's praise for staff and students as he accepted the credit for Dundee University's top 10 placing in the Times Higher Education Student Experience Survey.

Speaking after Dundee was voted as offering the best student experience in Scotland, Professor Pete Downes, said the award was "a credit to all staff".

Janice Aitken, Dundee UCU branch representative, said: "Strike action is always a last resort, but we have exhausted all other avenues and have been left with no other option.

"We have offered to support efforts to increase income and suggested alternative ways forward that do not involve staff being made redundant.

"However the university seems intent on rushing through plans to cut posts, which risk damaging the university's reputation and students' education."