Union calls off University strike

THE University of Aberdeen has lifted the possibility of compulsory redundancy facing staff in modern languages.

Professor Karl Leydecker, Senior Vice-Principal of the University of Aberdeen, said: “We were able to take this step after receiving a strong set of proposals from staff in Modern Languages to grow income and reform the curriculum. Together with clear signs of progress towards cost savings, we see a sound basis for future academic and financial sustainability, which we will continue to monitor for effectiveness.”

Last week the University lifted the risk of redundancy facing Gaelic staff. Both decisions were enabled after the University’s governing body Court endorsed the outcomes of a consultation that took place into Modern Languages.

Professor Leydecker added: “We would like to give our thanks to our many colleagues who worked so hard to formulate these comprehensive proposals, with actions already underway to ensure that the plans are implemented at pace.

“This includes continuing to offer a full range of undergraduate Joint Honours degrees in Modern Languages, Translating & Interpreting, including Gaelic, together with taught and research postgraduate programmes, and continued support for research.

“New interdisciplinary undergraduate degrees are also planned that will incorporate languages and be an exciting and competitive offering for our future prospective students.”

Following today’s announcement, Aberdeen UCU union has now confirmed that planned industrial action due to begin on 12 March will now not take place, with the dispute now at an end.

Professor Leydecker added: “We know that the ongoing uncertainty has been extremely difficult for staff affected, as well as for our wider community. The conclusion of the Modern Languages consultation and the removal of the risk of redundancy and the end of this dispute with UCU, provides an opportunity to move forward positively as a Modern Languages community of staff and students.”