Professor Paul Bartholomew, Vice-Chancellor of Ulster University, addressed staff in a recent webinar, revealing the university’s intention to implement a Staff Reduction Scheme due to persistent financial challenges.
The memo, released shortly after the Teams Live call, underscored the gravity of the situation facing the institution and its employees.
Professor Bartholomew began by expressing that many staff members had participated in the call, where he outlined the necessity of the proposed scheme. He acknowledged the collective efforts made by staff in supporting income generation and implementing cost controls during an exceptionally challenging period for the higher education sector, particularly in Northern Ireland.
The Vice-Chancellor emphasised that Ulster University is not exempt from the sector-wide difficulties that have compelled over 100 universities across the UK to consider staffing reductions. Compounded by the university’s unfunded Northern Ireland government policy and the financial implications of its multi-campus model, the situation has reached a critical juncture.
Despite previous efforts to engage with the Department for the Economy regarding a sustainable funding model, Professor Bartholomew regrettably noted that no resolution is forthcoming, leaving the university with limited options. The decision to consult on the staff reduction scheme was not made lightly; it reflects a response to the socio-economic and political decisions affecting Northern Ireland.
The Vice-Chancellor reiterated that the announcement marks the beginning of a statutory 90-day consultation period, during which discussions will take place with Trade Union representatives. The aim is to explore ways to mitigate potential redundancies and to clarify the terms of the proposed severance scheme.
Once the consultation concludes, should the redundancy scheme proceed, the university will re-engage with staff to provide details on its operation, including application timelines and selection criteria. Support arrangements will also be put in place for staff seeking further information about the process.
To facilitate open communication, Professor Bartholomew committed to hosting in-person Town Hall meetings at each campus to address staff concerns and provide updates. The sessions are scheduled as follows:
- Belfast: Tuesday, 12 May at 2pm
- Coleraine: Wednesday, 13 May at 2pm
- Derry~Londonderry: Thursday, 14 May at 2pm
In closing, the Vice-Chancellor assured staff that the Senior Leadership Team recognises the difficulty of this period and is committed to working collaboratively throughout the process, remaining true to the core values of the university community. The challenges ahead are daunting, but the focus remains on navigating these turbulent waters with transparency and support for all employees.