Rally to Save Jobs at the Press

12 noon, Guildhall, Cambridge Market, Saturday 14 February

At the end of October 2008 the University Press announced that about 80 jobs in printing looked as if they might have to go. Then, on 21st January 2009, the Press sent a letter to all staff announcing that 133 of 170 print jobs would be going, 25 of 50 in the Education department on the publishing side. They did not announce in the general letter that many jobs in Cambridge-Hitachi would be lost as that department merges with the 'New Directions Group'. Cambridge-Hitachi staff were informed of their situation separately, also on that day. Staff in all sections are understandably unhappy, and feel that these redundancies are unnecessary and ill-timed. There is also significant frustration with the way the Press is managing the situation. 

The Printing section of Unite initiated a call for a rally, and a campaign meeting with reps from Printing, Publishing, and the Trades Council set the date for Saturday 14th February. We will assemble at the guildhall, and intend to march to the Senate House, to put pressure on the University to protect these vital jobs. Whether you are an employee of the press, or a local resident concerned about the state of the economy, please come and show your support for the affected workers.