College lecturers are taking strike action today and tomorrow (Tuesday 26 and Wednesday 27 April 2022), with more walkouts planned for next week, over the current pay offer.

The offer would secure the position of lecturers in Scotland as the best paid in the UK while also continuing to enjoy the best terms and conditions.

Gavin Donoghue, Director of College Employers Scotland said:

“This industrial action will not result in an increased offer. The funding is simply not there to increase the £1,000 currently on the table from employers. The college sector is in a funding crisis and will end this year with a deficit nationally of £5.7million.

“The offer to lecturers includes a £150 one-off payment, recognising their contributions during the pandemic, along with a £850 consolidated payment. This is a higher pay offer than that already accepted by Scotland’s teachers, civil servants, police officers, and firefighters.

“The employers met with the EIS-FELA again last Friday but unfortunately the union failed to put forward any specific proposal which would help end this dispute.

“College Employers Scotland will continue to be available to meet with trade unions at any time in an attempt to resolve this dispute in a fair, deliverable, affordable and sustainable way.

“Colleges are doing everything they can to minimise disruption and support students during this critical exam period.”