THE threat of industrial action by members of the National Union of Journalists at BBC Scotland – which might have easily spread to the BBC, UK-wide – has been averted.
It follows an agreement between union officials – including the NUJ’s general-secretary, Michelle Stanistreet – and BBC Scotland senior management over a journalist who had been facing compulsory redundancy, as part of ongoing budget cuts at BBC Scotland.
The redeployment of the individual resulted in the halting of a ballot of NUJ members throughout BBC Scotland, including in Dundee and the Scottish Borders.
Involved in the negotiations was BBC Scotland director, Ken MacQuarrie.
Said the NUJ’s Scottish Organiser, Paul Holleran: “We had a very constructive dialogue with Kenny and he responded positively, taking charge of the situation, through his suggestions, and the union is delighted to see the removal of this imminent threat to our member.
“The decision to redeploy the individual came in the middle of a ballot for industrial action but we had to inform chapel members that we had made progress and the need to take action had diminished. I think the membership welcomed the movement and they can now get on with delivering news and current affairs programmes. Hopefully, this is the first step towards restoring decent industrial relations and improving morale among staff.”
