Tuesday 16-11-2021 - 09:41

Laura Sadler, Assembly Media Observer, reports from the Emergency Assembly, Thursday 11 November.

What happened?

An Emergency Assembly was called to discuss the stance of Durham SU towards the possible industrial action by staff at the University as members of the UCU (University and Colleges Union). After debate, Assembly members voted to support the strike action and stand in solidarity with University staff, whilst also recognising the negative effects industrial action might have on students. Find out more below.

Why was Assembly called?

An Emergency Assembly was called by ten student Assembly members and took place on Thursday 11 November. The purpose of this Assembly was to discuss and decide the position of Durham SU towards possible industrial action, undertaken by the University and Colleges Union (UCU). This was in light of a recent ballot in which 80% of Durham UCU members voted in favour of strike action and ASOS (action short of strike). This was a single motion Assembly meeting, which was called to discuss one issue.

The meeting began with a brief overview of the purpose and proceedings of Assembly to inform new members, information can be found here https://www.durhamsu.com/voice/assembly.

What was the motion?

The motion was presented by Charlie Procter (Undergraduate Academic Officer). The motion presented in favour of Durham SU supporting UCU industrial action. The Officer acknowledged the disruption industrial action could cause to students’ academic experience. However, the motion proposed that unsustainable and unfair working conditions for staff have a concurrent effect on students’ learning experience. The motion highlighted that whilst opposing the strikes would create division between students and lecturers, supporting the industrial action would be a pragmatic long-term solution, directing anger towards the “faceless university” who hold the power to change these conditions.

What was argued against this?

Opposition against the motion emphasised the function of the SU to represent students and that the feeling in many University Common Rooms is fear and anxiety about the disruption these strikes could bring, particularly amongst finalists.

How did the debate develop?

Further arguments in favour of the motion introduced the position of PGR students, represented by the SU, and their dual position as both staff and students. Declan Merrington (Postgraduate Academic Officer) highlighted the importance of solidarity from undergraduates, many of whom may go onto to postgraduate study, and so, should support immediate action that may improve their future working conditions. Discussion also noted that supporting the motion allows Durham SU to work with lecturers to mitigate the effect on student learning. Much emphasis was given to the trickle-down effect that “happy staff means happy students”.

Arguments against the motion focused on the ineffectiveness of previous industrial action to effect change, and the particular impact strike action can have on one-year MA students who have a short Durham educative experience. There was also concern raised against what the SU will do to support students during the strike action. An argument opposing raised the issue of heightening student disapproval towards Durham Students’ Union, and the potential for this motion to reflect negatively on the SU’s reputation in the student body.

What were other points of consideration?

In general comments, it was noted that the strikes will affect everyone differently and that this is an intersectional issue. Several Durham SU Officers agreed that support will come once the strikes are more clearly in place, and discussion can take place around how this action will affect all different groups of students. It was also highlighted that the SU’s stance towards industrial action will not control or limit the strikes in any way; it can only offer solidarity and show respect for all members of the University community.

What was the result?

The motion was taken to a vote and was passed.

What does this mean?

Going forward Durham Students’ Union will stand behind future staff decisions in relation to industrial action and support them in their 2021-22 fight to improve working conditions and protect pensions. Durham SU Officers will also make every effort to advocate for the continued quality of teaching and learning, for reasonable adjustment in assessments, and to represent the interests of all members.

Find out more about what the UCU is striving to change here: https://www.ucu.org.uk/hedisputes