Classes at colleges across Tayside and Fife have been cancelled as lecturers take part in 2019’s third day of strike action.
Members of the Educational Institute of Scotland – Further Education Lecturers’ Association (EIS-FELA) are demanding what they say is a fair cost of living increase, in line with public sector pay policy.
Staff have gone on strike today, with both Dundee and Angus College and Fife College affected.
Classes have been cancelled as a result, with some tutors making arrangements with students on an individual basis.
College facilities remain open for use.
The latest strike comes following 24-hour walkouts in January and February.
A Dundee and Angus College statement reads: “Due to industrial action by teaching staff on Wednesday, March 6 2019 all classes will be cancelled.
“D&A College campuses will remain open for independent student study or other individual arrangements that staff may make with their students.
“The closure will not impact on bursary, EMA or other student payments.”
Fife College added: “A series of strikes are planned by the EIS, the union which represents teaching staff. The next strike is due to take place Wednesday, March 6.
“We will aim to run as many classes as possible however to ensure the safety and well-being of our students some classes have been cancelled. If this affects you, you will have received a communication from the College via email or post.
“To ensure there is minimal disruption to you and your studies the college will be open as normal.
“If your class has been cancelled you can use this time for self-study. Our staff will be on hand in our Libraries and Learning Hubs to offer support if you need it.
“All of our facilities will be unaffected and our Campus Cafes and Costas will be open as normal.”
EIS-FELA said it has rejected a 2% increase offer over three years, and accused employers’ association Colleges Scotland of seeking to tear-up existing commitments on lecturers’ working conditions.
They warned of possible further action, including a boycott of college results systems.
