EDUCATION IN BRIEF

Striking staff to teach public free

STRIKING university lecturers at Bangor University are running public teaching events during their walk out.

Events start on the first day of the strike today and are open to the public, students and staff.

Further “Teach-Outs”, take place on February 26 and 27.

One of the “Teach-Out” co-ordinators, Dr Alison Cameron, said: “Staff feel forced into striking to protest the proposed cuts to their pensions, but feel that it is very important to demonstrate to students and the community that we are committed to teaching, which is why we want to share our learning as widely as possible during the strike.

“Staff have offered to teach a wide range of topics, and I am particularly looking forward to learning from some student led sessions. We hope that local people will come to listen to and discuss the interesting topics, and to show their support for the strike.”

The first event runs from 1pm to 4.30pm at the Quaker Meeting House, Deiniol Road, Bangor, today. “Teach-Outs” on February 26 and 27 will be in the Vestry of Emaus Chapel on Garth Road/ Love Lane, Bangor.

Penny Dowdney, President of the Bangor Branch of UCU, said: “Our right to a well-earned retirement is under attack. We are taking strike action to defend our right to a fair pension. UCU members’ future pensions would be at the mercy of the investments market.”