Developing a Management Approach to Redundancy

Abstract

This article traces the development of union and employer approaches to redundancy and the issue of job security. It suggests that there is scope for a broader approach to be taken, A redundancy situation is a complex one extending beyond the decisions to dismiss some workers because they no longer can be usefully employed. It involves a succession of decisions which should encompass both the human resource management and employee relations dimensions of the situation. The management of this decision-making process will influence the redundancy aftermath, not only in terms of the extent and manner of any actual dismissals, but also the efficiency of the remaining labour force and the prevailing employee relations climate. The ACAC Decision on job security, the resistance of workers to redundancy and management's own interests are identified as pressures which will bring about more effective redundancy management.