Edinburgh University principal says he is trying to avoid compulsory redundancies
Edinburgh University principal Professor Sir Peter Mathieson has said the university is trying to avoid compulsory redundancies as staff continue to campaign against cuts and job losses.
Members of the University and College Union (UCU) have just completed a three-day strike over £140 million of cuts at the university, which they say include up to 1,800 job losses. The union has called on the university to rule out compulsory redundancies.
In a statement, Professor Mathieson said: "As part of ongoing efforts to resolve the dispute, my senior team and I have held several meetings with the University and College Union Edinburgh.
“It remains our position that, wherever possible, we will seek to avoid compulsory redundancies. It is also important that we protect our students and staff from further disruption, while fulfilling our responsibility to secure the university’s long-term financial stability.
“We have recently put forward a fair and carefully considered offer. This includes a proposal, in line with UCU’s request, that there would be no compulsory redundancies through our cost-saving programme before July 2026.
“At a time when responsible action is required to safeguard our University’s future, we stand ready to continue negotiations with UCUE and reach a sustainable solution.”
Sophia Woodman, branch president of UCU Edinburgh, said: “Our members remain resolute in their desire to prevent all compulsory redundancies at the University of Edinburgh, including the ones happening right now, and are clear that there are alternatives to forced job cuts.
"Hundreds of jobs have already been lost, and these staff cuts are already negatively impacting students, with course cuts and reduced contact hours. Staff workloads are increasing exponentially. We are pleased that the employer remains open to further negotiations and we are always ready to continue talks with the employer.”