Empey welcomes suspension of industrial action
22 June 2008
Minister for Employment and Learning, Sir Reg Empey, has welcomed the news that college employers and the University College Union (UCU) have agreed to suspend industrial action and suspensions of lecturing staff by employers.
He said: “This is a long running dispute and my Department has been working hard with all parties involved to try to reach a solution. The immediate suspension of industrial action will allow further negotiations to take place and I welcome this very positive move by both the employers and the unions.
“As we move into the summer months it is vital that some final agreement is reached so that normal service is restored in colleges in the autumn. We must not allow our students’ education to be disrupted any further.
“I and my officials will offer every assistance to both parties to try to end this damaging and demoralising dispute.”
NOTES TO EDITORS:
1. Media queries to the Department for Employment and Learning Press Office on 028 9025 7872.
2. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.