Belfast College To Loose Over 200 Staff

Belfast Metropolitan College has confirmed it is likely to shed more than 200 jobs in restructuring plans.

The college has finished a 90-day consultation period with unions about the plans - although it also admitted that talks had "broken down".

A statement issued on Tuesday said 120 full-time and 93 part time positions are under threat, but the management said where possible, redundancies would be on a voluntary basis and the implementation of measures such as flexible working, career breaks and reduced hours.

Marie-Thérèse McGivern, Director and Chief Executive of the College said talks between the College and trade unions had broken down during the consultation.

"We are disappointed at the recent breakdown in communications with the recognised trade unions but we remain committed to continuing positive dialogue with the staff affected during the restructuring process," she said.

"To this end, we will continue to consult on a one to one basis with staff.

"It is regrettable that these reductions are necessary but they are essential to secure the College's future sustainability and development.

"The potential number of staff that this is likely to affect is 120 full-time, permanent and 93 part-time, temporary employees," it said noting that the college management said they hoped many redundancies would be voluntary.

They said other measures such as flexible working, career breaks and reduced hours would be used.

Staff and unions protested about the job cuts at the college's campus in west Belfast on Monday.

(BMcC/GK)