Unite has responded to the Ulster University’s publication of its voluntary redundancy scheme. The union said the plan fails to provide any analysis of how cutting 450 (equivalent to 15 per cent of the workforce) would affect the quality of education, the sustainability of its four campuses or the impact on already hard-pressed workers.

The university has also failed to provide any assurances that compulsory redundancies will not follow if insufficient volunteers are accepted on the voluntary scheme.

Unite general secretary, Sharon Graham said, "These job cuts fundamentally damage Ulster University. Management has paid no attention to the concerns raised by the workforce. They have been deaf to their fears that this drastic staffing cut will leave those who remain struggling to cope. It undermines the quality of education and the sustainability of the university’s multi-campus model."

Damien Doherty, regional officer said, "Ulster University has failed to rule out compulsory redundancies or that job cuts could exceed the 450 figure.

“Redundancies on this scale threaten the viability of more than one campus. How is that going to affect balanced regional development? The Stormont Executive must intervene and properly fund higher and further education."

Unite represents more than 400 non-teaching staff employed by Ulster University.

ENDS...

For more information or to arrange an interview contact Donal O’Cofaigh, Unite campaigns communications and press (NI), tel. (07810) 157926.