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The former principal of Dundee University, Professor Iain Gillespie, has expressed his regret to the students and staff of the institution and stated that he is considering giving back the £150,000 severance payment he received. His resignation from the university came shortly after disclosing an eight-figure deficit and the potential loss of hundreds of jobs. Prof Gillespie, while appearing before the Holyrood’s education committee, admitted his failure as the accounting officer and principal, acknowledging that he lacked the ability to take responsibility for the financial crisis.
The independent report led by Professor Pamela Gillies heavily criticized Prof Gillespie for his leadership style and his management of the financial crisis at the university. The report highlighted poor financial judgment from university management as a leading cause of the £35m deficit. Despite the report’s findings, Prof Gillespie defended his actions by stating that he did not have a full understanding of the university’s finances. He also mentioned that it was not within his considerations to repay the salary he received upon leaving the university.
In response to questions from committee chairman Douglas Ross about whether he was a coward for resigning and not addressing the financial mess, Prof Gillespie maintained that he acted in the best interests of the university. First Minister John Swinney suggested that returning the money would be the right thing to do given the severity of the situation outlined in the Gillies report. Prof Gillespie also defended the university’s international trips, stating that they were aimed at creating opportunities for research and fostering a welcoming environment for students coming to Dundee.
Other former senior university figures, including Dr. Jim McGregor, Amanda Millar, and Peter Fotheringham, also provided evidence to the committee. Dr. McGregor denied claims of operating in isolation of the facts, while Millar expressed frustration and sorrow over the situation. Fotheringham highlighted resource constraints in his department despite being aware of the worsening financial situation. The committee also heard from Wendy Alexander, the university’s former vice principal international, who claimed she was forced out after questioning the institution’s finances. Staff at the university expressed shock and dismay at the incompetence displayed by senior managers during the hearings
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