Herald journalists set to strike over plans for 8 compulsory redundancies
The NUJ has announced that journalists at the Glasgow-based newspaper The Herald are set to strike, following plans for the Newsquest-owned organisation to cut 20 jobs.
The Glasgow Herald NUJ chapel ballot for action closed on Thursday 25 July with 86 per cent of members voting for strike action and 96 per cent of members voting for action short of a strike.
Paul Holleran, NUJ organiser in Scotland, said: “The ballot result shows the strength of feeling amongst our members. It is a clear sign that management should re-open talks with the union and resolve the dispute. Strike action is always a last resort but the chapel vote for action shows members want to try and stop Newsquest’s ruinous plans. Gannett has a total revenue of £848m yet they want to make compulsory redundancies on what are nearly statutory terms.”
It has been suggested that eight positions are set to be lost through voluntary redundancy.
Michelle Stanistreet, NUJ general secretary, said: "Scotland's leading newspapers have faced years of cuts thanks to Newsquest. They have inflicted widespread damage in our industry and they have harmed newspaper titles and quality journalism. The ballot result reflects the unity of the chapel and their resolve to stand up for journalism in Scotland. Newsquest should listen to the concerns of its staff and stop treating our members with contempt.”
The date of the strike has not yet been agreed.