TRADE unionists at a college in Glasgow are organising a rally after a principal sent a “threatening” and “coercive” letter to staff participating in industrial action.
Staff at Glasgow Clyde College have been participating in action short of a strike (ASOS) since February over a pay dispute, with members of Educational Institute of Scotland (EIS) recently voting unanimously in favour of a vote of no confidence in the college’s principal and chief executive, Jon Vincent.
In the letter, Vincent outlines the college’s approach to staff who are participating in ASOS – which includes submitting students’ marks – where he confirmed those taking part in the action would have 100% of their pay deducted.
The letter states that “any work performed during ASOS is voluntary and does not entitle individuals to payment”, leading staff to raise concerns that the approach “contravenes fair working practices” and is “coercive and unfair”.
Staff have argued this “effectively forces staff to volunteer to attend work under threat of penalty”, even though they will not be paid for this time.
“Staff will have 100% of their salary docked for work that is only partially within their contract and is currently being boycotted by the union,” a source said.
“This tactic is coercive and unfair, putting undue pressure on staff to comply.”
EIS members have now organised a rally to address their concerns, which will take place on Buchanan Street on Wednesday, between 12pm and 1pm.
Staff said the letter revealed to voters “how education is being managed, especially for working-class students”, with the General Election taking place in just two weeks’ time.
“This issue is not only about the staff but also about the quality of education and the principles of democracy being upheld within our educational institutions,” staff said.
“Union busting is a serious concern and goes against our democratic values.”
A spokesperson for Glasgow Clyde College said: “Industrial action causes lasting and, in some cases, irreparable damage to the lives of students, facing huge uncertainty about their courses and next steps if marks are withheld.
“Participants in ASOS have taken this action in full knowledge it constitutes a breach of contract.”
Industrial reaction
Unite staff at the Douneray nuclear plant have postponed strike action set for Wednesday following an improved pay offer from employers. Workers will now be balloted on the offer before deciding whether to continue action.
More than 1000 security guards at job centres across the country continue to take part in GMB industrial action, with strikes expected to last until June 25.
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