Stirling University staff strike after pay deduction

Staff at the University of Stirling are walking out after their pay was docked for taking part in a marking boycott. 

Workers have reported a pay deduction of 50%.

Staff have been refusing to mark essays and exams in a dispute over pay.

Lecturers are beginning walkouts today. 

The University say they’re "disappointed" by the strikes.

Mary Senior, UCU Scotland official, said: “Staff choose to work in universities because they want to teach and support students.

“The very last thing staff want to do is take industrial action, but over 10 years of pay being held down and worsening conditions has left us with no option.

“The principal at Stirling, Gerry McCormac, should stop trying to circumvent lawful industrial action short of strike and join the increasing number of principals and vice-chancellors calling for new, meaningful talks to resolve the dispute.”

A Stirling University spokesperson said: “The university is disappointed that this additional strike action is taking place.

“Our focus is on ensuring all our graduating students and their guests can celebrate and enjoy their graduation day, and we are grateful to all those staff across the institution who have worked hard to make this happen.

“A small number of staff continue to participate in the marking and assessment boycott, as part of sector-wide industrial action.

“Marking and the facilitation of assessments form part of the contractual duties of teaching staff. Staff who are not fulfilling their contractual obligations will have part of their pay withheld.”