Jobs in Coventry University’s School of Engineering are to be axed following the revelation that the department is facing a £1 million shortfall in European grants.

Staff this week are being presented with several options for their future after the decision was taken to cut the number of employees from 69 to 22.

A thorough review of the school was ordered when it was realised that inadequate management and administration meant European grants could not be claimed.

The number of positions in the section that deals with supporting businesses in the area is to be pared down to 22 - the minimum believed to be necessary to fulfil existing contracts.

Staff are being asked if they would like to volunteer for redundancy, if they are interested in one of the 22 positions that are to be filled, or if they would like to apply for other vacancies in the university.

Cyrrhian Macrae, director of corporate affairs, said:

“The university sincerely regrets that this course of action has been necessary but financially it cannot sustain the posts when there is a shortfall in grant income. It no way reflects on the quality of the staff or their work.”

 “In excess of 20 vacancies across the university have been identified as being suitable for redeployment and business-support staff will be able to apply for them if they so wish.

“The university will give consideration to training in appropriate circumstances. Assistance in seeking alternative employment beyond the university will be provided if requested.”

SEE: [09 OCT 00] THREE DISCIPLINED AS  £1M LOSS DISCOVERED