Decision on Uni job cuts to be made next week

Mar 16 2011 by Johnathon Menzies, Stirling Observer Wednesday

STAFF at a flagship Stirling research centre face an uncertain future following the announcement that job losses “cannot be ruled out”.

Dozens of workers connected to the University of Stirling’s institute of aquaculture may be facing the axe as management look to trim costs.

The news has prompted a furious reaction from trade union members, with the University and College Union (UCU) declaring itself “astounded” and saying as many as 36 posts could go.

UCU bosses have said that the cost-cutting measures could be implemented as soon as June.

Union official Mary Senior said: “We are astounded that such a unique institute that is vital to Scotland’s economy – and fish-farming in particular – is effectively being shut because it does not fit into the obscure planning budgets of the university.

“There is a worrying trend of ending courses and units that don’t neatly fit into the rigid budgetary plans of universities yet are vital for Scotland.

“It’s the worst example of people who know the price of everything, but value of nothing, being responsible for such important decisions.”

A spokesperson for the university said a consultation process examining the department’s future has been taking place since October.

She added that a final decision on potential job losses has not been made, although she admitted the university’s redundancy committee were to meet yesterday (Tuesday) and again tomorrow to discuss the issue.

The university court will convene on Monday to decide whether to approve or reject the redundancy committee’s findings.

The spokesperson said savings have to be made to ensure the scientific hub progresses to a “strong and sustainable” future.

She went on: “We are examining ways to eliminate the institute of aquaculture’s current budget deficit, which was originally identified at over £2 million but has since been reduced.

“We have already embarked on ways to grow its income and make cost reductions. However, the possibility of job losses cannot be ruled out.”

The institute of aquaculture’s website states that the department has grown substantially since it was created 35 years ago and currently boasts 69 staff.

It is regarded as the foremost centre of its kind, both in the UK and internationally, and focuses on reproduction, genetics, health, nutrition and food supplies, production systems, markets, and their associated social and economic impacts.