Forth Valley College lecturers reinstated to posts as industrial dispute is resolved

Today a National Circular on the Instructor Dispute by EIS-FELA members over fire and rehire tactics was agreed and issued to all colleges.

This set out how such facilities should deal with issues that may arise locally in instances where instructors are being used instead of lecturers.

Following 11 days of industrial action, the circular ensures 27 EIS-FELA members at FVC who were forced into instructor posts are reinstated as lecturers.

Dr Ken Thomson OBE, FVC principal, said: “Following the joint referral to the NJNC joint secretaries, we can confirm that the dispute between college management and EIS-FELA branch in regards to the role of instructor assessor has now been resolved, pending a consultative ballot.

“College management have removed the instructor assessor post from the college structure and all instructor assessors will be given the opportunity to transfer to lecturing roles at FVC’s campuses in Falkirk, Alloa and Stirling.

“FVC management and EIS-FELA branch are committed to moving forward after this challenging period and working together to ensure success for all our students.”

Gillian Mackay, Scottish Green MSP, said: “I spoke to EIS-FELA and their members last week and I am delighted that this agreement has been reached.

“I would like to pass on my congratulations to EIS-FELA members, especially the branch at Forth Valley College and I want to reassure them that the Scottish Greens will continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with lecturers across the country to ensure that the role of lecturers is protected and that students’ education is valued and respected.

“The role of a lecturer should not be replaced with a similarly titled post that is essentially expected to do the same work on poorer pay and conditions.”

The EIS-FELA has been contacted for comment.

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