UNIVERSITY staff in Galashiels are considering whether to go on strike over potential job losses.

Members of the University and College Union (UCU) at Heriot-Watt University are being balloted for strike action.

The dispute is based on looming cuts, with more than 130 jobs reportedly at risk across the university’s sites nationwide.

The union says any job losses in Galashiels would have a “significant local impact”.

UCU’s Scotland official, Mary Senior, said: “This decision to cut 130 jobs at Heriot-Watt University will add to the worry and upset among staff and students.

“The news comes at a time when staff have worked tirelessly to keep the university running during the COVID-19 crisis and when the chances of finding other work will be hard.”

The union, which says the first staff would leave in November, has described the timetable as “rushed”.

Other ways of saving money have not been properly looked at, claim union representatives.

The union says losing so many staff members would have a drastic impact on the “student experience” and the university’s reputation. 

Remaining staff would be left with higher workloads and less contact time with students, who would be taught in bigger classes, according to the union. 

Ms Senior said: “UCU is open to negotiation and consultation to avoid compulsory job cuts.

“We urge the university to work with us to identify alternative savings, not rush through job losses at this difficult time.

“However, we are clear that members need to show their strength of feeling against these job losses, and that’s why we are balloting members for strike action to defend jobs.”

The ballot opened on Tuesday, September 29 and continues until October 20.

A spokeswoman for Heriot-Watt University said: “The global pandemic has resulted in a significant impact on the university’s income.

“This financial challenge is resulting in the need to make some difficult decisions, and this includes proposals to reduce the number of roles across the university.

“We are committed to finding these through voluntary means wherever possible, either through potential redundancy or other voluntary options such as a reduction in working hours, career breaks and flexible retirement.

“We continue to consider all suggestions for cost savings, and consultation with unions and staff around the proposals for role reductions, which includes a number of externally-funded research roles coming to their natural end, is ongoing.

“No final decisions have yet been made and the programme for voluntary options is currently still open.”