Politicians step into Ayr College dispute

May 15 2009 by Stuart Wilson

TOP politicians are wading into the wages war at Ayr College.

And the Scottish Parliament could also get involved as the dispute drags into its seventh week.

Labour colleagues Cathy Jamieson and Sandra Osborne say enough is enough, with students fearing for their future.

Lecturers have been striking for three days a week as the exam season lurches into full swing.

Now Westminster and Holyrood have joined forces to call for both parties to negotiate.

MSP Ms Jamieson, who’s proposed a motion to Parliament asking them to intervene in the row, said: “I am concerned that this dispute is continuing at a crucial time for students.

“I have also heard from EIS representatives, who want to try and find a way through this dispute.

“Students tell me they are particularly worried that their exam preparation is being hit, and they want to see this resolved fairly, to get their own lecturers back in class rather than temporary staff being brought in to cover.

“I hope that the college board will agree to further negotiations to make progress.”

And her colleague Ms Osborne agrees.

The MP for Ayr, Carrick and Cumnock said: “The union has now offered to take part in binding arbitration, following a settlement being imposed by management.

“This seems to me to offer a constructive way forward to complete negotiations and avert further strike action.

“This situation needs to be resolved sooner rather than later as, having spoken to student representatives I know there is great concern amongst the student population.

“I hope the college board will seriously consider this as a way of getting back round the table.”

And student chief John O’Neill confirmed his fears as the exams kick off.

He admitted: “This prolonged dispute is having an extremely detrimental effect on the educational experience of the majority of students at Ayr college.

“They may fail exams due to the lack of teaching and preparation.

“My concern is that they will not be able to resit these exams, and could indeed jeopardise their whole educational career.”

College principal Diane Rawlinson insists her door is open to any of the politicians who want to talk.

She said: “As always, I would be happy to discuss any matter of college business with any of our local MSPs or MPs, and my door remains open.

“There will be no disruption to the examination diet while the industrial action continues.

“The pay offer has been put in place with the students’ best interests at heart as we collectively fulfil our commitment to their futures.

“It is vital that we maintain a financially secure position in order to deliver education and training opportunities, and support individuals and businesses through these difficult economic times.”