150 jobs at risk as cuts announced at thirdWelsh university

JOB cuts have been announced at a third Welsh university.

Aberystwyth University has written to all staff seeking voluntary redundancies.

It is understood that up to 150 jobs are at risk as the university aims to save £11m over the next two years.

The university blamed competition for students, a drop in numbers of 18-year-olds and the effect of Brexit.

The news follows similar announcements at the University of South Wales and the University of Wales Trinity St David.

The USW announced that 139 jobs are being cut and UWTSD sent letters to all teaching and support staff seeking voluntary redundancies in March.

In a statement Aberystwyth University said: “Like other UK universities, we are facing changes and challenges including increasingly intense competition for students, a demographic decrease in the current pool of 18-year-olds, and rising costs.

“Universities also face uncertainties caused by Britain’s decision to leave the European Union, as well as tighter visa regulations for international students.

“Based on these factors and our current student recruitment figures, we are facing a projected budget deficit and need to make significant savings of £6m (5%) in 2017-18 and £5.4m (5%) in 201819.

“The university’s council has approved an action plan setting out the positive steps which are being taken to restore the institution to a sound financial footing, as well as identifying investments in growth areas.”

University authorities are in talks with trades unions and no departments will shut as a result of the savings plan, the statement added.

It is hoped that no compulsory redundancies will be made and the university has re-opened its enhanced voluntary severance and early retirement scheme.

“At this stage we have not formulated any detailed plans that indicate precisely how many and/ or which posts might be affected,” the statement said.

“No departments will need to close to deliver these savings, and there is no change to the university’s stated commitment to its key capital projects.

“We will focus our efforts on working with staff, partners and the community to secure a sustainable financial foundation.”

Jeff Baker, from trade union Unison, said: “UNISON will work with Aberystwyth University to identify potential savings. We will defend members’ salaries, terms and conditions. We want the Welsh government to consider whether intervention is necessary.”