Cardiff University staff have voted to take action that could lead to strikes and boycotts, potentially disrupting upcoming graduations. More than 1,000 staff members are facing the threat of compulsory redundancies, with 355 academic posts marked for elimination as part of cost-cutting measures proposed by the university. In response, 83% of staff voted in favor of strike action, and 86% supported actions short of a strike, such as an assessment boycott. The Cardiff University and College Union (UCU) members are considering these measures unless the university management commits to avoiding compulsory job cuts.
The proposed cuts at Cardiff University include putting 355 academic roles at risk, potentially leading to the closure of degree courses and academic schools such as nursing, modern languages, music, ancient history, translation, religion, and theology. These plans come amidst financial challenges, including a reported deficit of over £31 million in the current financial year. The university has stated that it cannot rule out the possibility of compulsory redundancies, prompting concerns and opposition from staff members.
Dr. Joey Whitfield, the President of the Cardiff University UCU branch, emphasized the staff’s strong opposition to the proposed cuts, urging university leaders to reconsider the plans. He highlighted the significant support from various sectors for the staff’s position and called for a more cautious and evidence-based approach to addressing the university’s financial issues. While industrial action is considered a last resort, Dr. Whitfield stressed that it may become necessary if negotiations with the university do not yield a favorable outcome.
UCU general secretary Dr. Jo Grady expressed support for Cardiff staff’s frustration with the university’s lack of collaboration to prevent the proposed cuts. She called on the university’s management to focus on resolving the dispute and avoiding potential strike action. In response, a Cardiff University spokesman acknowledged the staff’s concerns and expressed disappointment at the prospect of industrial action, recognizing the potential impact on students. The university assured that efforts would be made to minimize disruption and stated that the proposed changes are subject to an ongoing consultation process.
The strike ballot follows a critical response from academics across the university regarding the cuts plans, reflecting broader discontent within the institution. As discussions continue, the potential for strike action looms, raising questions about the future of academic staff and the university’s financial sustainability. The Cardiff University community awaits further developments amidst the ongoing dialogue between the university management and staff representatives, with the hope of reaching a resolution that aligns with the interests of all stakeholders and maintains the quality of education and research at the institution.