University staff say too much pay docked for strike action

A union has claimed that Dundee and Stirling universities have unlawfully deducted pay from striking academics.

The UCU has written to their principals, Professor Pete Downes and Professor Gerry McCormac, to demand the money is returned.

Academic staff took part in two-hour stoppages this year as part of a pay dispute but were later docked an entire day’s pay.

UCU’s Scotland official Mary Senior said: “To be treated so poorly by your employer leaves an incredibly bitter taste in the mouth.”

The pay dispute was settled this month when UCU members voted to accept a 2% rise.

A Dundee University spokesman said its action was in line with Universities and Colleges Employers Association guidance.

“Staff were advised in advance of the university’s position on partial performance in taking such strike action, the member of staff forfeits the right to the pay they would normally have received that day and should therefore not attend work that day,” he said.

“The money deducted from pay was donated to the Student Hardship Fund.”