The National Union of Journalists will ballot members over strike action at the Glasgow Herald and Evening Times after it emerged that up to 20 editorial jobs could be lost.
The NUJ is calling on publisher Newsquest to improve redundancy terms and avoid compulsory redundancies at the newspapers.
Newsquest told its Glasgow staff of the possible job cuts last week, sparking a 30-day consultation period. It has started a voluntary redundancy programme, with a compulsory programme set to follow if there are not enough volunteers.
The NUJ has asked the company to extend the deadline for volunteers for at least a week.
Related
Ballot papers will go to staff as soon as possible, bringing the possibility of industrial action later this summer.
Paul Holleran, NUJ organiser in Scotland, said: “The NUJ approached Newsquest management around three weeks ago seeking more staff for a beleaguered workforce, particularly production where a number of members have been or are off with stress. We are now facing up to 20 redundancies and although we were prepared to try and work with management as we did successfully at The Scotsman there appears to be little or no willingness on the Newsquest side to compromise.
"We fought a successful legal action a few years ago to protect our redundancy terms and it now looks like we might have to do the same again. If they want a smooth restructuring they need to be flexible with the terms. Members are really angry and are calling for industrial action across the whole of Newsquest, the least management can do is slow down the process and enter into meaningful talks with the union."
Content from our partners
Email pged@pressgazette.co.uk to point out mistakes, provide story tips or send in a letter for publication on our "Letters Page" blog
