I was surprised and offended to read Michael Austin’s account of recent events at Accrington and Rossendale College (TES, FE Focus, March 28). It was sheer arrogance, and very misleading, to describe them as simply identifying “a redundancy” and making “an individual redundant”. The events at that college tell a different tale.
First there was the dismissal of all part-time lecturers, with an offer of work if, and only if, the dismissed lecturers joined a specified agency. Secondly, redundancy is subject to specific legislation.
Before anyone is made redundant the law requires “meaningful consultation with a view to reaching agreement”. This has to be with representatives of a recognised trade union (or employee representatives if no union is recognised). The trade union at Accrington was NATFHE. Where was the consultation? Is 10 minutes enough for “meaningful consultation?” MICHAEL COATS 66 Rooley Moor Road Rochdale, Lancashire
