University of the West of Scotland staff ballot for strikes
The University of the West of Scotland (UWS) branch of the Educational Institute of Scotland University Lecturers' Association (EIS ULA) opened a statutory strike ballot on Monday, June 23, in response to the university's refusal to guarantee no compulsory redundancies under its Organisational Change Project (OCP).
The ballot will close at noon on Tuesday, July 22.
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Garry Ross, EIS National Officer for Higher Education, said: "It is deeply regrettable that the University of the West of Scotland has chosen to make this large number of job cuts and pushed staff to the point of balloting for strike action.
"The proposed redundancies are a short-sighted and damaging strategy that will have a devastating impact on the livelihoods of dedicated staff, many of whom have worked at UWS for years.
"Furthermore, it will inevitably lead to a decline in the academic provision, research capacity, and overall student experience at the university.
"We urge UWS to step back from this path and engage meaningfully with the EIS ULA to secure a no-compulsory-redundancy guarantee."
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The ballot follows ongoing disputes with university management over the OCP, which includes plans to cut 75.2 full-time equivalent academic posts.
The union has raised concerns about transparency and consultation during the process, lodging a formal dispute in March.
EIS ULA argues that compulsory redundancies threaten job security, academic standards, and research at UWS.
The union said it has a strong mandate for industrial action following a previous consultative ballot that showed broad support for a strike if redundancy guarantees were not provided.
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Members are determined to protect jobs and maintain the university's role within the Scottish higher education sector.
EIS ULA is urging UWS management to re-enter negotiations and work towards an agreement that avoids compulsory job losses and safeguards the institution's future.
The union said it remains committed to finding a negotiated solution but is prepared to take strike action if necessary to protect its members and academic standards.
UWS has been approached for comment.
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