UCU statement on announced job cuts at Glasgow Caledonian University

Commenting on reports that Glasgow Caledonian University (GCU) is facing a predicted deficit of over £10million in the next financial year and is introducing a targeted voluntary redundancy scheme to cut approximately 100 posts, Karen Lorimer, president of the GCU UCU branch, said: 'Glasgow Caledonian University has indicated its intention to introduce a targeted redundancy scheme in response to financial pressures, and have not ruled out compulsory redundancies.

'This is deeply concerning for staff across the university. Redundancies of this scale would have a serious impact not only on jobs, but on students, workloads and the long-term sustainability of the institution. Cutting the very staff who educate and support students risks long-term damage to public services and to widening access.

'UCU will be seeking full financial transparency from management, including clarity on all alternative measures that have been considered. Before reducing frontline teaching and support roles, management must demonstrate full financial transparency and show that all alternative measures have been properly explored. 

'UCU will engage constructively, but we will firmly oppose any move towards compulsory redundancies and will work to protect both jobs and the quality of education in Scotland.'

Jo Grady, UCU general secretary, said: 'Today's news will be deeply worrying for staff at the university and for students too. Equally worrying is that the principal is already suggesting that there might be compulsory redundancies. The union will support the branch at GCU in whatever steps they take, but we're clear that the use of compulsory redundancies is unacceptable.'