IFUT members have voted overwhelmingly in favour of industrial action, up to and including strike action, in the union’s public service ballot.
93% of those voting backed industrial action.
The result is a decisive democratic mandate and sends a clear message to Government: higher education staff expect a credible settlement on pay, delivery of outstanding Local Bargaining commitments, and protection against unilateral changes to working arrangements.
Following the ballot, the IFUT Executive Committee has authorised an initial programme of action:
- Monday, 5 October: one-hour withdrawal of labour from 12 noon to 1.00 p.m.
- Wednesday, 14 October: 24-hour strike
- Wednesday, 21 October: further 24-hour strike
The first action takes place on World Teachers’ Day.
That date matters. World Teachers’ Day is intended to recognise the people whose work sustains education. This year, IFUT members will mark it by standing together for the value of that work and for fair treatment of those who teach, research and sustain our higher education system.
IFUT General Secretary Frank Jones said:
“This is an exceptionally strong and democratic mandate from higher education staff. Members have been patient, but they are not prepared to see the value of their pay and living standards eroded while Government fails to put a credible proposition on the table.”
The ballot is the mandate. Organisation makes it count.
A 93% YES vote gives us authority to act. The strength of what happens next will depend on participation in every workplace.
That means talking to colleagues, building strong branch organisation, preparing rosters and pickets, and making sure members understand the action and are ready to take part.
This action will be built branch by branch, workplace by workplace and member by member.
There is still time for Government to establish a serious basis for negotiations and avoid the planned action.
But the mandate is clear. Members have voted. Now we organise to make that mandate count.