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Western University is offering voluntary retirement packages to nearly 15 per cent of its teaching staff – buyouts critics say could diminish education quality and pave the way for more instructors hired on contract at less cost.

Amid belt-tightening from the province’s overhaul of the post-secondary sector, about 320 of Western’s senior faculty members across all departments have been offered the packages, said Andy Hrymak, provost and academic vice-president.

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To date, about 11 per cent have accepted. The final deadline to accept is Aug. 15.

“This was offered to a group of faculty members for them to consider whether this might be an opportunity for them to think about their retirement plans,” he said.

“The package was offered to people based on a number of criteria. Two were age and years of service.”

Hrymak said the package was customized to each individual and declined to give specifics on what is being offered.