WORKERS fearing for their jobs amid a cash crisis at the University of Dundee will be balloted for strike action, Unison said today.

The institution was left in disarray in November when the principal and vice-chancellor, Professor Iain Gillespie, emailed staff to inform them there was a £30 million black hole in its finances and job cuts were “inevitable” — he resigned immediately after.

Last month, lecturers with the UCU overwhelmingly backed strike action, and now IT, administrative, cleaning, security and facilities workers at the university represented by Unison will have their chance to join them. 

Unison Scotland regional organiser Mo Dickson said workers still “haven’t received any assurances jobs won’t be cut,” adding: “Employees are trying to find out how Dundee University has ended up with a £30m deficit.

“All staff hear are rumours — facts are in short supply.

“And all the while they’re having to cope with additional work pressures as a result of numerous unfilled job vacancies.

“It’s a stressful environment and morale is at an all-time low.”

The University of Dundee called the ballot “premature and extremely disappointing.”

The ballot will run from February 25 to March 18.