Compulsory redundancies on the cards at the Guardian
A consultation between the guardian and the NUJ has begun over possible compulsory redundancies after the number of voluntary offers accepted fell well short of the 70-100 journalist target set by Guardian Media & News.
It would be the first time in its history that that the paper would resort to such measures, necessitated by a desire to slash its editorial bill by £7m.
In a statement the media group said: “Guardian News & Media's editorial management today met with NUJ officials to discuss ways to achieve the required budget and headcount reduction in the editorial department. The NUJ asked for the voluntary redundancy scheme to be re-opened and this has been agreed.
“GNM also discussed with the NUJ other possible measures to reduce the budget. These included: a pay freeze; reducing the use of casuals; encouraging part-time working; and changing terms and conditions, including reviewing the 9-day fortnight and sabbaticals.
“Of course, GNM hopes that we will be able to achieve the required savings without making compulsory redundancies, but because we recognise that they can't be ruled out, we have today entered into a formal consultation period with the NUJ for a minimum of 90 days.
“During that time, we want to work constructively with the NUJ to achieve the savings by voluntary means if at all possible.”
GNM currently employs around 650 editorial staff, 90% of whom are NUJ members, but has been battling increasing operating losses, which hit £44.2m last year.