University to reconsider cuts to archive service

Some of the planned cuts at a Welsh university where dozens of jobs are at risk will be reconsidered after "serious concerns" were raised.

Proposed cuts to the archive and special collection service at Bangor University were part of a university cost-saving plan which threatens 78 jobs.

It prompted politicians to intervene, with Plaid Cymru MSs Siân Gwenllian, Liz Saville Roberts and Rhun ap Iorwerth meeting with the university's vice-chancellor, Professor Edmund Burke.

University officials have now confirmed that the proposal to cut three archive staff roles is "under review".

Gwenllian, who represents the Arfon constituency, told the Local Democracy Reporting Service: "Members of staff and students have approached me with concerns about different aspects of the proposals, and I was able to convey them directly to the vice-chancellor and senior representatives.

"I'm glad they have listened to the strength of feeling and are now reconsidering the proposed archive cuts.

"We will now continue to make a case for a halt to compulsory redundancies and for the in-year support provided by the Welsh government to be used to reduce job losses.

"We will continue to make the case for the government to step in with more support."

Saville Roberts added the archives at Bangor were "of national significance".

"Ensuring continued public access to this vital historical resource is essential for our understanding of Welsh history, identity, and culture. I welcome the university's decision to pause and reconsider."