QUB staff would not strike lightly
I would like to place on record my solidarity and support for the Queen's University members of the University and College Union (UCU) who have taken party in 48 hours of industrial action.
As an alumni of Queen’s University, I know how dedicated the staff are and I understand that the decision to strike was not taken lightly.
Lecturers have faced a decline in the value of their pay while staffing has been casualised.
Their frustration has understandably increased in light of the fact that 18 highly paid appointments have been made.
Higher education is an important part of creating the highly skilled workforce that Northern Ireland needs.
It opens up opportunities to learn from academic leaders who should be treated with the dignity and respect that they deserve.
The university must take action to value its lecturers, beginning with fair pay and a halt to job cuts.
Clare Bailey MLA, Green Party, South Belfast