8 layoffs hit U of R staff

The University of Regina is responding to the provincial budget by cutting staff.

On Tuesday, the University announced eight layoffs as a result of the cuts to funding from the Government of Saskatchewan.

It will also be eliminating 11 vacant positions and reducing work hours for three vacant positions.

These cuts are in addition to the 13 university-supported workers at the University Club who received layoff notices in April.

• U of S staff, faculty likely hardest hit by provincial budget cuts in long term: Provost

In total, 35 positions have been affected by budget reductions.

"We are losing some very important members of our University family people whose services to our students and our community will be missed," said president Vianne Timmons. "Without adequate government funding, our ability to support student success, produce innovative research and contribute to the economic health of our province will be eroded."

Since November 2016, the Government of Saskatchewan has announced nearly $7 million in cuts to the University of Regina.

Cuts to faculty and administrative units will affect the:

• Faculty of Arts
• Faculty of Science
• Human Resources
• Faculty of Education
• Library
• Prairie Adaptation Research Collaborative
• Faculty of Nursing
• Facilities Management
• Faculty of Media, Art and Performance
• Faculty of Social Work