Obituary: Graham Goddard
From the Morning Star
by Derek Simpson
Our comrade Graham Goddard lost his battle with cancer on October 19th at the age of 51. Graham was the joint deputy general secretary (DGS) of Unite the Union.
Where do you start when reflecting on the life of a person that meant so much to so many people? Graham Goddard was one of the kindest and most caring, thoughtful, generous and decent people you could ever wish to meet.
Graham was much more than a DGS for Unite. He was a dedicated socialist who passionately believed in doing all he could to enhance the lives of working people. He detested the inequality and devastation that capitalism delivered, having seen first hand the demise of manufacturing, employment and society during the Thatcher years of the 1980s in his home county of Yorkshire.
Graham joined the AEU as an apprentice engineer in Sheffield and soon became active in the union. He was employed at Shardlows, an automotive parts manufacturer. Although this was a highly organised workplace with an existing mature shop stewards committee, he was quickly elected deputy convener and then convener.
He became a regional officer based in Sheffield, following which he became Amicus regional secretary for Yorkshire and Humberside and later for the north-west.
Promoted to deputy general secretary, perhaps Graham's most notable achievement was the pensions campaign, of which he was at the forefront.
Based upon his own experiences from Sheffield, he played a leading part in the efforts towards the creation of the pension protection fund and the financial assistance scheme.
Graham, together with his United Engineering Forging comrades, stood up to a system which would have seen them - and thousands of others - lose their right to take, after a lifetime of work, a pension as deferred wages.
He fought back against a system that saw people, after losing their job through company insolvency, stand to lose their life's savings, built up over years in the company pension.
During the five years it took to win the campaign, many miles were walked in protest demonstrations, hundreds of hours spent lobbying government ministers and MPs. But Graham's determination was so great he created a mood of confidence in all those around him who worked and supported the campaign.
On December 17 2007 a deal was struck which saw the government commit £12 billion to secure pension benefits up to 90 per cent for over 140,000 people throughout the UK.
You would think that this in itself was a victory worth savouring but Graham was determined that when the economic circumstances were right the outstanding 10 per cent would have been fought for.
It is no exaggeration to say that thousands of workers and their families will benefit from Graham's work, now and in the future.
Graham also took over strategic management of the finance sector. Working with the senior lay leadership he led the unification of the insurance and banking sectors into a cohesive group fit to fight on behalf of our many thousands of members right across the financial services industry.
More recently, Graham was involved in the detailed negotiations for the establishment of Unite's constitutional structures, to create a union that is fit to serve our members' needs into the future. Both within and outside Unite he leaves a long-lasting legacy.
Graham had a very close and loving family - his daughter Jayne with husband Andrew and grandsons Thomas and George, daughter Vicky and grand daughter Paige, and son Richard with fiancee Angela, his sister Jean with husband Terry and their children Andrew and Andrea.
Graham also leaves his partner Siobhan and his much-loved 18-month-old son Ted. Graham was a much-loved and respected man who leaves a great legacy in his family and his work.
We have lost a valued colleague and dear friend.
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Unite News Updates: BA; First Bus Sheffield; Fujitsu Ballot Result
Unite To Take Legal Action At BA
Unite will take legal action to block British Airways disputed plan to impose new work contracts on 14,000 cabin crew.
Unite said it will apply for a High Court injunction to stop BA introducing new pay and conditions for the cabin crew, which are due to be introduced on November 16th.
The action is separate to a planned ballot of union members for possible strike action. Unite says the ballot will go ahead on Monday.
First Bus Strikes Continue
A fourth day of strike action by bus drivers in Sheffield will go ahead on today after talks between operator First and union officials broke down.
Staff will walk out for 24 hours over disciplinary issues at the city's Olive Grove bus depot.
Unite has announced a further three strike dates on 7, 8 and 15 November after it failed to reach an agreement with First bosses on Friday.
On Thursday drivers voted to accept a two-year pay deal, putting an end to strike action in Doncaster and Rotherham.
All 1,350 drivers in South Yorkshire were balloted on the deal, which included a 3% pay increase in April 2010, with 63% voting in favour.
Great Ballot Result @ Fujitsu
The result of the Unite Fujitsu industrial action ballot over Jobs, Pay & Pensions.
Well done to all comrades!
Are you prepared to take part in strike action?
Number of votes cast 983
Spoiled voting papers 3
Number voting Yes 728 (74%)
Number voting No 252 (26%)
Are you prepared to take part in industrial action short of a strike?
Number of votes cast 983
Spoiled voting papers 1
Number voting Yes 900 (92%)
Number voting No 82 (8%)
Unite will take legal action to block British Airways disputed plan to impose new work contracts on 14,000 cabin crew.
Unite said it will apply for a High Court injunction to stop BA introducing new pay and conditions for the cabin crew, which are due to be introduced on November 16th.
The action is separate to a planned ballot of union members for possible strike action. Unite says the ballot will go ahead on Monday.
First Bus Strikes Continue
A fourth day of strike action by bus drivers in Sheffield will go ahead on today after talks between operator First and union officials broke down.
Staff will walk out for 24 hours over disciplinary issues at the city's Olive Grove bus depot.
Unite has announced a further three strike dates on 7, 8 and 15 November after it failed to reach an agreement with First bosses on Friday.
On Thursday drivers voted to accept a two-year pay deal, putting an end to strike action in Doncaster and Rotherham.
All 1,350 drivers in South Yorkshire were balloted on the deal, which included a 3% pay increase in April 2010, with 63% voting in favour.
Great Ballot Result @ Fujitsu
The result of the Unite Fujitsu industrial action ballot over Jobs, Pay & Pensions.
Well done to all comrades!
Are you prepared to take part in strike action?
Number of votes cast 983
Spoiled voting papers 3
Number voting Yes 728 (74%)
Number voting No 252 (26%)
Are you prepared to take part in industrial action short of a strike?
Number of votes cast 983
Spoiled voting papers 1
Number voting Yes 900 (92%)
Number voting No 82 (8%)
Friday, October 30, 2009
Tory Anti Union Laws Planned
From TULO
The front page of today's Guardian reveals the true nature of the Tories anti-trade union legislation, taking us much further than Margaret Thatcher ever dared to tread. Their proposals would shackle workers - effectively removing Unions' ability to take industrial action.
It's that extreme.
This threatens everything we've worked for - and it shows how dangerous a Tory Government could be to each and everyone of us. We have to act now, and send the Tories a message loud and clear: no to Cameron's extreme attacks on our unions -
http://unionstogether.org.uk/fightback
The Guardian says the Conservatives are "looking at introducing laws setting new minimum turnout thresholds." This means that a majority of people eligible to vote would have to vote yes - not just those people actually taking part in the ballot.
The CWU's industrial action against the backward looking management at Royal Mail was backed by 76% of members in a ballot. But their action would be under threat by the Tories new scheme. As would the refuse collectors' strike in Leeds - removing the right for the GMB and Unison to fight for fair wages for their members - even though two-thirds of the workforce turned out and the workers voted to strike 2:1.
This law would fundamentally undermine every single union's ability to represent their members.
And all this comes from a Party where not one single Tory MP was elected by 50% of the voters eligible to vote in their constituency. Not one.
It's one rule for us and one rule for them. The Conservatives need to know they're not going to get an easy ride if they think they can pick up where Thatcher left off. Let's say no - right now. Sign the petition and then warn your friends about the threat from the Conservatives:
http://unionstogether.org.uk/fightback
Everything we have fought for and won over the last decade is under threat from the Conservatives - today's reports reveals the dark depths that they are willing to sink to attack our rights.
The fight back starts now - let's get at them.
The front page of today's Guardian reveals the true nature of the Tories anti-trade union legislation, taking us much further than Margaret Thatcher ever dared to tread. Their proposals would shackle workers - effectively removing Unions' ability to take industrial action.
It's that extreme.
This threatens everything we've worked for - and it shows how dangerous a Tory Government could be to each and everyone of us. We have to act now, and send the Tories a message loud and clear: no to Cameron's extreme attacks on our unions -
http://unionstogether.org.uk/fightback
The Guardian says the Conservatives are "looking at introducing laws setting new minimum turnout thresholds." This means that a majority of people eligible to vote would have to vote yes - not just those people actually taking part in the ballot.
The CWU's industrial action against the backward looking management at Royal Mail was backed by 76% of members in a ballot. But their action would be under threat by the Tories new scheme. As would the refuse collectors' strike in Leeds - removing the right for the GMB and Unison to fight for fair wages for their members - even though two-thirds of the workforce turned out and the workers voted to strike 2:1.
This law would fundamentally undermine every single union's ability to represent their members.
And all this comes from a Party where not one single Tory MP was elected by 50% of the voters eligible to vote in their constituency. Not one.
It's one rule for us and one rule for them. The Conservatives need to know they're not going to get an easy ride if they think they can pick up where Thatcher left off. Let's say no - right now. Sign the petition and then warn your friends about the threat from the Conservatives:
http://unionstogether.org.uk/fightback
Everything we have fought for and won over the last decade is under threat from the Conservatives - today's reports reveals the dark depths that they are willing to sink to attack our rights.
The fight back starts now - let's get at them.
Workers Uniting Group Hustings - Eastern Region
EASTERN REGION HUSTINGS
Will be held at
Heath Court Hotel
Moulton Road
Newmarket
Suffolk
CB8 8DY
Thursday 12th November at 7.00pm until 9.00pm
The meeting has been arranged to nominate the Workers Uniting candidate for the 2010 - UNITE General Secretary Election, from the Eastern Region.
All candidates that are committed to the aims and values of Workers Uniting have been invited to address the meeting; this will include a questions and answers session. Members will then have the opportunity to nominate a Regional candidate.
It is important that those elected represent the policies and values of members, this can only be achieved by groups of members working together in support of candidates committed to the aims of Workers Uniting, and will take Unite in the direction of a modern and representative union.
Your Union! -Your Vote! - Your Say!
Shaping the future of Unite the Union
The meeting will be open to all Unite members who share the values of Workers Uniting within the Eastern Region. Members are welcome to attend and take part in a debate with candidates.
javascript:void(0)
www.workersunitinggroup.com
Will be held at
Heath Court Hotel
Moulton Road
Newmarket
Suffolk
CB8 8DY
Thursday 12th November at 7.00pm until 9.00pm
The meeting has been arranged to nominate the Workers Uniting candidate for the 2010 - UNITE General Secretary Election, from the Eastern Region.
All candidates that are committed to the aims and values of Workers Uniting have been invited to address the meeting; this will include a questions and answers session. Members will then have the opportunity to nominate a Regional candidate.
It is important that those elected represent the policies and values of members, this can only be achieved by groups of members working together in support of candidates committed to the aims of Workers Uniting, and will take Unite in the direction of a modern and representative union.
Your Union! -Your Vote! - Your Say!
Shaping the future of Unite the Union
The meeting will be open to all Unite members who share the values of Workers Uniting within the Eastern Region. Members are welcome to attend and take part in a debate with candidates.
javascript:void(0)
www.workersunitinggroup.com
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Hewlett Packard Customer Engineers To Ballot On Dispute
HP faces possible strike action from Unite members after Unite announced a vote among its 150 customer engineers, whose jobs are being shifted to a subsidiary firm.
If the strike gets the go-ahead, it will be the first of its kind at HP, which in the past two years has undergone dramatic job culls in a move to cut costs at the computer vendor.
Unite said in a statement that it had begun a ballot that covers home-based customer engineers and support specialists who operate across the UK for HP.
Staff are angry about being shunted over to HP’s subsidiary company HP CDS at the start of next month. Unite claimed the computer giant is removing pay and pension benefits, including a performance bonus scheme worth up to £2,000 and a final salary pension scheme.
"This is HP's highest level of support for its biggest customers - and they're going to be seriously hacked off if there is a strike. It is staggering how the engineers are staying positive when they're being treated like garbage," an ex-HP insider said.
"Our members face cuts to their pay and pensions and have no choice other than to begin an industrial action ballot,” said Unite national officer Peter Skyte.
“This is the latest in a series of attacks by the company on our members' pay and conditions, while senior executives and shareholders do very well indeed.”
He added that the union was willing to talk to HP to “seek a resolution to this dispute... but not on the basis that one employee’s pay cut results in an HP executive’s pay and bonus increase.”
If the strike gets the go-ahead, it will be the first of its kind at HP, which in the past two years has undergone dramatic job culls in a move to cut costs at the computer vendor.
Unite said in a statement that it had begun a ballot that covers home-based customer engineers and support specialists who operate across the UK for HP.
Staff are angry about being shunted over to HP’s subsidiary company HP CDS at the start of next month. Unite claimed the computer giant is removing pay and pension benefits, including a performance bonus scheme worth up to £2,000 and a final salary pension scheme.
"This is HP's highest level of support for its biggest customers - and they're going to be seriously hacked off if there is a strike. It is staggering how the engineers are staying positive when they're being treated like garbage," an ex-HP insider said.
"Our members face cuts to their pay and pensions and have no choice other than to begin an industrial action ballot,” said Unite national officer Peter Skyte.
“This is the latest in a series of attacks by the company on our members' pay and conditions, while senior executives and shareholders do very well indeed.”
He added that the union was willing to talk to HP to “seek a resolution to this dispute... but not on the basis that one employee’s pay cut results in an HP executive’s pay and bonus increase.”
Rob MacGregor - "Re-mutualise Northern Rock"
Following the green light from the European Commission to break-up Northern Rock into a 'good' and 'bad bank' , Rob MacGregor National Officer for the Finace Sector said: "The government now has the opportunity to make Northern Rock a beacon for a new era of responsible financial services.
"Northern Rock should be re-mutualised and returned to the local community from where it came, there can be no back door deals to sell it to the highest bidder. Northern Rock's de-mutualisation a decade ago was a disaster. Establishing it as a Building Society would inject more competition into financial services and give the bank back to its customers."Any break-up of Northern Rock can only be achieved if it guarantees jobs in the North East and protects the interests of savers and borrowers.
"Private companies and other PLC's should not benefit from the taxpayer bailout of Northern Rock and any new deal on the future of Northern Rock should include full repayment of the total costs of its bail out."
"Northern Rock should be re-mutualised and returned to the local community from where it came, there can be no back door deals to sell it to the highest bidder. Northern Rock's de-mutualisation a decade ago was a disaster. Establishing it as a Building Society would inject more competition into financial services and give the bank back to its customers."Any break-up of Northern Rock can only be achieved if it guarantees jobs in the North East and protects the interests of savers and borrowers.
"Private companies and other PLC's should not benefit from the taxpayer bailout of Northern Rock and any new deal on the future of Northern Rock should include full repayment of the total costs of its bail out."
Royal Mail Dispute - Higson vs. Unite, RM Climbdown
A comrade asked for this to be posted on the Workers Uniting Group site. Happy to oblige.
From Rene Lavenchys blog
Higson vs Unite: Royal Mail’s climbdown over orders to managers
By lastreporter
"Last week I did a piece for Tribune about how Royal Mail was ordering managers to do postmens’ (and womens, thanks Enoch Was Right) work for them during the CWU strike. Royal Mail managers are represented by the union Unite. Now I learn it seems they’ve backtracked.
In response to my questions for last week’s article, Royal Mail emailed a statement saying: “Anyone who is not able to work directly in the operation for whatever reason is not required to do so”. A complete contradiction, it seems to me, of managing director (letters) Mark Higson’s words in his letter, to wit:
“You will recall, I wrote to you back in September, explaining that two days’ support per week would be the minimum expected level. The need to provide a service for customers relying on us means this can no longer be optional .”
What changed? Well, Unite’s Paul Reuter wasn’t happy with the order, as I said in my article. Managers have a flexibility clause in their contracts that means they have to cover for lower grade staff, but Higson’s order went too far for the liking of the union, who asked him to rescind it.
Moreover, Derek Simpson and Tony Woodley wrote to their own members expressing solidarity with the CWU this week. Unite members can’t legally take unofficial strike action – there’s no dispute between them and Royal Mail – but it seems they can refuse to do postpersons’ work after a certain point of flexibility.
It seems Royal Mail have decided they can’t win this one. Managers’ cover could never break the strike on its own – there aren’t enough of them, 12,000 out of 120,000 – but they could have damaged morale amongst the strikers."
From Rene Lavenchys blog
Higson vs Unite: Royal Mail’s climbdown over orders to managers
By lastreporter
"Last week I did a piece for Tribune about how Royal Mail was ordering managers to do postmens’ (and womens, thanks Enoch Was Right) work for them during the CWU strike. Royal Mail managers are represented by the union Unite. Now I learn it seems they’ve backtracked.
In response to my questions for last week’s article, Royal Mail emailed a statement saying: “Anyone who is not able to work directly in the operation for whatever reason is not required to do so”. A complete contradiction, it seems to me, of managing director (letters) Mark Higson’s words in his letter, to wit:
“You will recall, I wrote to you back in September, explaining that two days’ support per week would be the minimum expected level. The need to provide a service for customers relying on us means this can no longer be optional .”
What changed? Well, Unite’s Paul Reuter wasn’t happy with the order, as I said in my article. Managers have a flexibility clause in their contracts that means they have to cover for lower grade staff, but Higson’s order went too far for the liking of the union, who asked him to rescind it.
Moreover, Derek Simpson and Tony Woodley wrote to their own members expressing solidarity with the CWU this week. Unite members can’t legally take unofficial strike action – there’s no dispute between them and Royal Mail – but it seems they can refuse to do postpersons’ work after a certain point of flexibility.
It seems Royal Mail have decided they can’t win this one. Managers’ cover could never break the strike on its own – there aren’t enough of them, 12,000 out of 120,000 – but they could have damaged morale amongst the strikers."
Workers Uniting Hustings - North East
A new date for the Hustings meeting in the North East is now
Sunday 15th November 2009.
At the Sunderland Customer Service Centre,
Bunny Hill, Hylton Lane, Sunderland, SR5 4BW,
10.30 for 11am.
Come and debate the future of Unite with Les Bayliss Assistant General Secretary, Brian Boyd National Officer, and Paul Reuter National Officer.
Workers Uniting Group operates an open door policy for these Hustings meetings.
Details for the Eastern Region will be available later this week.
Sunday 15th November 2009.
At the Sunderland Customer Service Centre,
Bunny Hill, Hylton Lane, Sunderland, SR5 4BW,
10.30 for 11am.
Come and debate the future of Unite with Les Bayliss Assistant General Secretary, Brian Boyd National Officer, and Paul Reuter National Officer.
Workers Uniting Group operates an open door policy for these Hustings meetings.
Details for the Eastern Region will be available later this week.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Urgent! Workers Uniting Group Hustings - North East
We have been notified by comrades in the North East that the hustings planned for Novemeber 8th is to be re-arranged as that date falls on Remembrance Sunday.
A new date is being arranged and notification will be sent out as soon as is possible.
A new date is being arranged and notification will be sent out as soon as is possible.
Monday, October 26, 2009
Sparks and Engineers To Vote On Strike Action
Unite electricians and engineers on the London Underground are planning to hold a strike ballot in protest over their latest pay offer.
600 Unite members have voted 2 to 1 in favour of holding an industrial action ballot as part of wider pay protests on the tube. The workers are responsible for maintenance, safety, management and power control.
Unite has condemned London Underground's 'final' two-year offer of 1.5% in the first year and RPI plus 0.5% in the second year as "doing nothing to help Unite members to meet the real rises in the cost of living, which are not reflected by current distorted inflation figures".
John Morgan-Evans, Unite regional officer, said: "Our members have been very patient but it is unfortunate that London Underground seems to be no longer interested in negotiating a solution. In these circumstances we have no other option than to ballot our members on industrial action. This was the unanimous decision at a meeting of our workplace representatives."
The Unite industrial action ballot will coincide with the RMT union's ballot of its members on the pay issue and it is anticipated that any resulting industrial action would be co-ordinated by the two unions.
600 Unite members have voted 2 to 1 in favour of holding an industrial action ballot as part of wider pay protests on the tube. The workers are responsible for maintenance, safety, management and power control.
Unite has condemned London Underground's 'final' two-year offer of 1.5% in the first year and RPI plus 0.5% in the second year as "doing nothing to help Unite members to meet the real rises in the cost of living, which are not reflected by current distorted inflation figures".
John Morgan-Evans, Unite regional officer, said: "Our members have been very patient but it is unfortunate that London Underground seems to be no longer interested in negotiating a solution. In these circumstances we have no other option than to ballot our members on industrial action. This was the unanimous decision at a meeting of our workplace representatives."
The Unite industrial action ballot will coincide with the RMT union's ballot of its members on the pay issue and it is anticipated that any resulting industrial action would be co-ordinated by the two unions.
BA Cabin Crew To Ballot On Strike
Unite has decided to ballot 14,000 cabin crew about whether to take strike action.
Unite has been in talks since the announcement of cost-cutting measures earlier this month. BA had said it would cut 1,700 jobs and freeze pay for current staff.
"Management's determination to impose unacceptable contractual changes on cabin crew leaves us no alternative," said Unite Joint GS Derek Simpson. "Negotiation, not imposition, is the only proper way to conduct industrial relations."
Unite has been in talks since the announcement of cost-cutting measures earlier this month. BA had said it would cut 1,700 jobs and freeze pay for current staff.
"Management's determination to impose unacceptable contractual changes on cabin crew leaves us no alternative," said Unite Joint GS Derek Simpson. "Negotiation, not imposition, is the only proper way to conduct industrial relations."
Saturday, October 24, 2009
More on Steve Acheson Case
Good website covering the excellent win by Unite and Steve Acheson at Fiddlers Ferry.
Includes YouTube BBC news clip.
http://www.hazards.org/blacklistblog/
Includes YouTube BBC news clip.
http://www.hazards.org/blacklistblog/
Vale Inco - 3,300 now on strike in Canada. Show your support!!
Vale Inco SA striking miners from Canada plan to demonstrate in New York and London as they seek an improved offer from the company on pay and conditions.
Workers scheduled a protest in front of the New York Stock Exchange in London’s financial district in November.
About 3,300 miners went on strike at Vale’s Sudbury nickel mine in Canada July 13, after USW members rejected a proposed labour contract.
They were joined by workers from Vale’s Voisey’s Bay mine in Newfoundland on Aug. 1. Vale said it restarted limited copper and nickel production at Sudbury Oct. 1 using 1,200 Sudbury workers who didn’t join the strike.
The Steelworkers union “wants the company to return to the bargaining table in Canada and calls on its top management to rekindle negotiations,” according to the statement.
“An impasse” continues with no further negotiations planned between the company and the union, Cory McPhee, a Vale spokesman in Canada, said today by telephone from Toronto. “We are ready to go back to the table if the union is ready to accept change and have meaningful discussion on pensions, bonuses and other issues of importance.”
Saba Mozakka, an officer at the Workers Uniting union coalition in London, also said miners will organize a series of demonstrations in the city in November to draw attention to the dispute. Workers Uniting is a partnership between the U.K.’s Unite union and the Steelworkers.
A Vale spokeswoman in Rio de Janeiro, who asked not to be named because of company policy, said she was unaware of protests. Vale postponed events in New York and London because of its executives’ schedules, she said.
To support our Steelworker comrades visit the spsical website below.
Send messages of support and solidarity directly to USW Locals.
http://www.workersuniting.org/our_issues/support_usw_striking_miners_at.aspx
Workers scheduled a protest in front of the New York Stock Exchange in London’s financial district in November.
About 3,300 miners went on strike at Vale’s Sudbury nickel mine in Canada July 13, after USW members rejected a proposed labour contract.
They were joined by workers from Vale’s Voisey’s Bay mine in Newfoundland on Aug. 1. Vale said it restarted limited copper and nickel production at Sudbury Oct. 1 using 1,200 Sudbury workers who didn’t join the strike.
The Steelworkers union “wants the company to return to the bargaining table in Canada and calls on its top management to rekindle negotiations,” according to the statement.
“An impasse” continues with no further negotiations planned between the company and the union, Cory McPhee, a Vale spokesman in Canada, said today by telephone from Toronto. “We are ready to go back to the table if the union is ready to accept change and have meaningful discussion on pensions, bonuses and other issues of importance.”
Saba Mozakka, an officer at the Workers Uniting union coalition in London, also said miners will organize a series of demonstrations in the city in November to draw attention to the dispute. Workers Uniting is a partnership between the U.K.’s Unite union and the Steelworkers.
A Vale spokeswoman in Rio de Janeiro, who asked not to be named because of company policy, said she was unaware of protests. Vale postponed events in New York and London because of its executives’ schedules, she said.
To support our Steelworker comrades visit the spsical website below.
Send messages of support and solidarity directly to USW Locals.
http://www.workersuniting.org/our_issues/support_usw_striking_miners_at.aspx
Newspaper publishers holding employees 'at gun point' over pay freezes
Unite assistant general secretary Tony Burke has hit out at newspaper publishers for forcing employees "at gun point" to take a pay freeze.
Speaking at the Uni Graphical European News Conference in London this week (19 October), Burke also criticised News Corporation owner Rupert Murdoch and predicted that site closures in the UK would continue at pace.
He told an audience of union members from across the European Union: "Many employers followed the phrase 'never miss the opportunity of a good crisis'. Our members have been forced at gun point to take pay freezes."
Burke was talking about Unite's views of the UK newspaper sector as he launched the three-day event in London.
He explained that local print sites had been closed, with journalists being centralised, which he saw as a threat to local democracy.
Burke added: "Unite expects no more than six 'supersites' in the UK. The biggest danger of all is News International's Broxbourne site.
"Many of you know the battles we had with Rupert Murdoch over Wapping. This is the same anti-union employer who is now able to contract produce, we believe, all of the current UK national titles.
"This is the same business that called for the dismantling of the BBC and led the right-wing attack on (US President Barack) Obama and his National Health Service plan.
Speaking at the Uni Graphical European News Conference in London this week (19 October), Burke also criticised News Corporation owner Rupert Murdoch and predicted that site closures in the UK would continue at pace.
He told an audience of union members from across the European Union: "Many employers followed the phrase 'never miss the opportunity of a good crisis'. Our members have been forced at gun point to take pay freezes."
Burke was talking about Unite's views of the UK newspaper sector as he launched the three-day event in London.
He explained that local print sites had been closed, with journalists being centralised, which he saw as a threat to local democracy.
Burke added: "Unite expects no more than six 'supersites' in the UK. The biggest danger of all is News International's Broxbourne site.
"Many of you know the battles we had with Rupert Murdoch over Wapping. This is the same anti-union employer who is now able to contract produce, we believe, all of the current UK national titles.
"This is the same business that called for the dismantling of the BBC and led the right-wing attack on (US President Barack) Obama and his National Health Service plan.
Gatwick Sale and Heathrow Expansion
Unite has called for an immediate meeting with Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP) following news that BAA has agreed to sell London Gatwick Airport to the group for £1.51 billion as uncertainty over who the future employer could be ended for thousands of workers at the airport.
Brian Boyd, Unite national officer for civil aviation, said: “While this sale is still subject to approval in Europe, Unite welcomes confirmation of who will take ownership of Gatwick. It ends months of uncertainty for many members as to whom their new employer will be. Our primary objective now is to meet with the Global Infrastructure Group as soon as possible to ensure that the safeguards we associate with the continued employment of our members at the country’s second largest airport, are in place.”
Unite represents thousands of airline and ground staff working at Gatwick airport, who provide services for the 34 million passengers who fly through Gatwick each year.
The sale to GIP, forced on BAA as a pro-competition measure, sees two of London’s airports now owned by the GIP. The union is concerned to ensure that the sale safeguards services, and workers' terms and conditions, as upheld by BAA.
Also responding to the announcement earlier from UK airports operator, BAA, that it is to suspend its planning application to build a third runway at Heathrow, Unite, the largest union in aviation, has denounced the move as confusing and damaging for UK business and decried Conservative party efforts to claim the delay as a victory for their transport policy.
Brian Boyd said: "The Conservatives have failed to present a feasible alternative to the problems associated with under capacity at Heathrow Airport. The London Mayor's proposals for an island airport on the Thames are, quite frankly, unworkable. The plans have no costing attached to them, nor do they consider the damage constructing this island would do to the environment. David Cameron has floated fast rail links as an alternative and in doing so demonstrated exactly why his arguments that a third runway is not required lack depth.
"Unite has always supported a fully integrated national transport network, which includes fast rail links and improved infrastructure, but this comes at a price in terms of displacement of people, the environment, and the overall costs. The Tories have been largely silent on all of these issue."
Brian Boyd, Unite national officer for civil aviation, said: “While this sale is still subject to approval in Europe, Unite welcomes confirmation of who will take ownership of Gatwick. It ends months of uncertainty for many members as to whom their new employer will be. Our primary objective now is to meet with the Global Infrastructure Group as soon as possible to ensure that the safeguards we associate with the continued employment of our members at the country’s second largest airport, are in place.”
Unite represents thousands of airline and ground staff working at Gatwick airport, who provide services for the 34 million passengers who fly through Gatwick each year.
The sale to GIP, forced on BAA as a pro-competition measure, sees two of London’s airports now owned by the GIP. The union is concerned to ensure that the sale safeguards services, and workers' terms and conditions, as upheld by BAA.
Also responding to the announcement earlier from UK airports operator, BAA, that it is to suspend its planning application to build a third runway at Heathrow, Unite, the largest union in aviation, has denounced the move as confusing and damaging for UK business and decried Conservative party efforts to claim the delay as a victory for their transport policy.
Brian Boyd said: "The Conservatives have failed to present a feasible alternative to the problems associated with under capacity at Heathrow Airport. The London Mayor's proposals for an island airport on the Thames are, quite frankly, unworkable. The plans have no costing attached to them, nor do they consider the damage constructing this island would do to the environment. David Cameron has floated fast rail links as an alternative and in doing so demonstrated exactly why his arguments that a third runway is not required lack depth.
"Unite has always supported a fully integrated national transport network, which includes fast rail links and improved infrastructure, but this comes at a price in terms of displacement of people, the environment, and the overall costs. The Tories have been largely silent on all of these issue."
BA Cabin Crew Called To Joint Meeting
An emergency meeting of all British Airways cabin crew has been called to fight plans to cut jobs, freeze pay and reduce wages and conditions for new staff.
Thousands of workers are expected to attend the meeting, at Sandown Racecourse in Surrey, on November 2, two weeks before the cuts come into effect.
Unite has urged BA not to impose the changes and has warned of industrial action.
Two former sections of cabin crew Bassa and Cabin Crew 89 have joined forces for the first time in over 20 years to hold the joint meeting.
"The situation we now face is so serious that we have taken the extraordinary step of joining together to hold this historic meeting," according to a message being sent to cabin crew.
"It is so important that all crew, whichever part of the union you belong to, need to attend."
Unite have complained that the changes being introduced next month constituted a "fundamental attack" on the jobs, wages and career prospects of all 14,000 cabin crew members of the union.
"They will not only hit the customer service core of the business, but will forever undermine BA's international reputation as a premier airline with premier crew providing a premier service.
"You are now being bullied into the very real possibility of accepting inferior contracts in just a few weeks time," union leaders said in a letter to workers earlier this month.
Thousands of workers are expected to attend the meeting, at Sandown Racecourse in Surrey, on November 2, two weeks before the cuts come into effect.
Unite has urged BA not to impose the changes and has warned of industrial action.
Two former sections of cabin crew Bassa and Cabin Crew 89 have joined forces for the first time in over 20 years to hold the joint meeting.
"The situation we now face is so serious that we have taken the extraordinary step of joining together to hold this historic meeting," according to a message being sent to cabin crew.
"It is so important that all crew, whichever part of the union you belong to, need to attend."
Unite have complained that the changes being introduced next month constituted a "fundamental attack" on the jobs, wages and career prospects of all 14,000 cabin crew members of the union.
"They will not only hit the customer service core of the business, but will forever undermine BA's international reputation as a premier airline with premier crew providing a premier service.
"You are now being bullied into the very real possibility of accepting inferior contracts in just a few weeks time," union leaders said in a letter to workers earlier this month.
Friday, October 23, 2009
Steve Acheson Picket At Fiddlers Ferry - Unite wins case
Unite member Steve Acheson has won his right to continue his protest outside Fiddlers' Ferry power station near Warrington.
Scottish and Southern Electricity (SSE) failed in its application for an interim injunction against Steveat the Royal Courts of Justice on 21st October.
Scottish and Southern Electricity had been seeking Steve's removal from outside the site where he has been protesting against his dismissal by site contractors and against blacklisting for over nine months.
The judge dismissed the application and ordered SSE to pay Steve's costs.
The judge said that the application came some nine months after Steve Acheson had begun his protest and that their appeared little urgency on the part of SSE to act against him
The judge said that the application was 'fanciful' and 'almost paranoid' and noted that Steve's occupation meant that he was alive to the dangers posed by power stations.
In written submissions to the court SSE indicated that they had concerns about climate protesters and Steve seeking to disrupt the operation of the power station and interrupt the supply of power to the national grid.
Unite assistant general secretary, Les Bayliss, said: "Scottish and Southern tried to cook up a fictional story to prevent a Unite member from holding a peaceful protest against blacklisting in construction outside Fiddler's Ferry power station.
This was a blatant attack on the rights we hold dear in a democratic society and we are pleased that the judge saw right through Scottish and Southern's bogus arguments."
Scottish and Southern Electricity (SSE) failed in its application for an interim injunction against Steveat the Royal Courts of Justice on 21st October.
Scottish and Southern Electricity had been seeking Steve's removal from outside the site where he has been protesting against his dismissal by site contractors and against blacklisting for over nine months.
The judge dismissed the application and ordered SSE to pay Steve's costs.
The judge said that the application came some nine months after Steve Acheson had begun his protest and that their appeared little urgency on the part of SSE to act against him
The judge said that the application was 'fanciful' and 'almost paranoid' and noted that Steve's occupation meant that he was alive to the dangers posed by power stations.
In written submissions to the court SSE indicated that they had concerns about climate protesters and Steve seeking to disrupt the operation of the power station and interrupt the supply of power to the national grid.
Unite assistant general secretary, Les Bayliss, said: "Scottish and Southern tried to cook up a fictional story to prevent a Unite member from holding a peaceful protest against blacklisting in construction outside Fiddler's Ferry power station.
This was a blatant attack on the rights we hold dear in a democratic society and we are pleased that the judge saw right through Scottish and Southern's bogus arguments."
2 Sisters Dispute - Jobs Back For Unfairly Sacked Workers
Visit the special website and sign the petition!
http://www.unitetheunion.com/campaigns/two_sisters.aspx?lang=en-gb
http://www.unitetheunion.com/campaigns/two_sisters.aspx?lang=en-gb
Sheffield Bus Drivers Strike
Bus drivers in Sheffield staged a 24-hour strike following a dispute with bosses.
750 workers are involved in the industrial action in the city, bus operator First said.
A walkout by hundreds of drivers in Doncaster and Rotherham was cancelled on Thursday after First offered a 3% pay rise by 2010.
But the Unite said the strike in Sheffield was going ahead because of a separate row over disciplinary issues.
Further strikes are planned for Sunday, Monday and 31 October.
Unite said the issues included grievances over the way the company handled workers who had taken sickness leave and First's "attitude to disciplinary action".
A spokesman for the union said: "The feeling is that this issue is even more important than the one of pay.
"We really do need to get this sorted out."
750 workers are involved in the industrial action in the city, bus operator First said.
A walkout by hundreds of drivers in Doncaster and Rotherham was cancelled on Thursday after First offered a 3% pay rise by 2010.
But the Unite said the strike in Sheffield was going ahead because of a separate row over disciplinary issues.
Further strikes are planned for Sunday, Monday and 31 October.
Unite said the issues included grievances over the way the company handled workers who had taken sickness leave and First's "attitude to disciplinary action".
A spokesman for the union said: "The feeling is that this issue is even more important than the one of pay.
"We really do need to get this sorted out."
VALE INCO STRIKE: Strikers take fight to Wall Street
Unite and Workers Uniting are supporting the Steelworkers comrades and will be demonstratiing with them in November. More information soon.....
Steelworkers take New York by storm
Two dozen striking members of the United Steelworkers got their message out loud and clear to the financial community and others in New York on Wednesday.
Fourteen members of Sudbury's United Steelworkers Local 6500 and 10 from Local 6200 in Port Colborne made a 48-hour return road trip to New York City to spread the word about their labour dispute with Vale Inco Ltd.
Wednesday was to be Vale Day on the New York Stock Exchange and Vale officials were to ring the bell at the opening of trading. The event was cancelled due to scheduling conflict, said a Vale spokeswoman in Brazil.
But Steelworker Joe Guido and his travelling colleagues think it was the threat of them embarrassing the mining company at the NYSE that forced the postponement.
A machinist at Vale Inco's divisional shops, Guido organized the trip for members of USW's Political and Allies Committee. The Canadian strikers rallied on the steps of the Federal Building, paraded with banners along Broadway and "rode" the symbolic bull outside the stock exchange.
"We brought our message to Wall Street and it was loud and clear," said Guido on Thursday. "It was a good day."
Steelworkers were joined by American USW members, as well as members of the United Federation of Teachers. The latter union served lunch to the Canadians.
They also joined the rally, which by law required a permit for strikers to use a bullhorn. Police officers armed with automatic rifles were vigilant and have been present since the attacks of Sept. 11, 2001.
One officer told the delegation, "you make all the noise you want," said Guido.
The visitors presented another officer with the Steelworkers' tiny shovel pin, which is worn handle down during a labour dispute.
"The officer said he couldn't wear it on his uniform, but he would keep it," said Guido.
Strikers used bullhorns to ask where Vale president and chief executive officer Roger Agnelli was.
"What is he hiding from?" they asked, said Guido.
Passers-by, many clearly investors by the look of their "thousand-dollar suits," said Guido, accepted leaflets the delegation distributed. Some promised to research Steelworkers' claims Vale is seeking "significant cutbacks" that led to the strike.
"I never had a negative comment," said Guido, who also arranged a trip to Queen's Park where striking Steelworkers supported the Ontario New Democrats' call for legislation prohibiting the hiring of replacement workers during labour disputes.
But the private member's bill co-sponsored by Welland MPP Peter Kormos and Nickel Belt MPP France Gelinas did not pass second reading. Before the vote, Steelworkers were ejected from the visitors' gallery for cheering and jeering while MPPs spoke to the bill.
Guido said he and his union brothers spoke with people in New York City, including Canadian tourists who wondered what a delegation from their country was doing on Wall Street.
"A high number were appalled when we told them what Vale is doing," said Guido.
USW insists Vale Inco was seeking concessions with a settlement offer calling for a defined contribution pension to replace the defined benefit one, reductions in the nickel bonus and limits on transfers among workplaces.
Vale Inco officials call the proposals "changes" and insist they are necessary to keep the business competitive in all business cycles.
Sudbury strikers left the city Tuesday at 5:30 a. m. and returned 48 hours later. Guido said he slept for a couple of hours before attending a Thursday morning USW Local 6500 membership meeting where he gave an update on the NYSE trip.
"I told them it wasn't a walk in the park," said Guido. "They were impressed."
The New York rally was staged as similar events were held in Sudbury, Toronto and Brazil, where Vale is headquartered.
When asked to comment on the Toronto demonstration, Vale Inco spokesman Steve Ball said Steelworkers were doing "what they feel is right to help their cause.
"We consider this is really another distraction and, unfortunately, the Steelworkers seem to be more committed to these kinds of events than they are to meaningful negotiations," said Ball.
"It would be nice if some of that time and effort was directed toward getting a deal done, and that can only be achieved when they commit to sitting down with us and dealing seriously with the issues that need to be discussed at the bargaining table."
Steelworkers take New York by storm
Two dozen striking members of the United Steelworkers got their message out loud and clear to the financial community and others in New York on Wednesday.
Fourteen members of Sudbury's United Steelworkers Local 6500 and 10 from Local 6200 in Port Colborne made a 48-hour return road trip to New York City to spread the word about their labour dispute with Vale Inco Ltd.
Wednesday was to be Vale Day on the New York Stock Exchange and Vale officials were to ring the bell at the opening of trading. The event was cancelled due to scheduling conflict, said a Vale spokeswoman in Brazil.
But Steelworker Joe Guido and his travelling colleagues think it was the threat of them embarrassing the mining company at the NYSE that forced the postponement.
A machinist at Vale Inco's divisional shops, Guido organized the trip for members of USW's Political and Allies Committee. The Canadian strikers rallied on the steps of the Federal Building, paraded with banners along Broadway and "rode" the symbolic bull outside the stock exchange.
"We brought our message to Wall Street and it was loud and clear," said Guido on Thursday. "It was a good day."
Steelworkers were joined by American USW members, as well as members of the United Federation of Teachers. The latter union served lunch to the Canadians.
They also joined the rally, which by law required a permit for strikers to use a bullhorn. Police officers armed with automatic rifles were vigilant and have been present since the attacks of Sept. 11, 2001.
One officer told the delegation, "you make all the noise you want," said Guido.
The visitors presented another officer with the Steelworkers' tiny shovel pin, which is worn handle down during a labour dispute.
"The officer said he couldn't wear it on his uniform, but he would keep it," said Guido.
Strikers used bullhorns to ask where Vale president and chief executive officer Roger Agnelli was.
"What is he hiding from?" they asked, said Guido.
Passers-by, many clearly investors by the look of their "thousand-dollar suits," said Guido, accepted leaflets the delegation distributed. Some promised to research Steelworkers' claims Vale is seeking "significant cutbacks" that led to the strike.
"I never had a negative comment," said Guido, who also arranged a trip to Queen's Park where striking Steelworkers supported the Ontario New Democrats' call for legislation prohibiting the hiring of replacement workers during labour disputes.
But the private member's bill co-sponsored by Welland MPP Peter Kormos and Nickel Belt MPP France Gelinas did not pass second reading. Before the vote, Steelworkers were ejected from the visitors' gallery for cheering and jeering while MPPs spoke to the bill.
Guido said he and his union brothers spoke with people in New York City, including Canadian tourists who wondered what a delegation from their country was doing on Wall Street.
"A high number were appalled when we told them what Vale is doing," said Guido.
USW insists Vale Inco was seeking concessions with a settlement offer calling for a defined contribution pension to replace the defined benefit one, reductions in the nickel bonus and limits on transfers among workplaces.
Vale Inco officials call the proposals "changes" and insist they are necessary to keep the business competitive in all business cycles.
Sudbury strikers left the city Tuesday at 5:30 a. m. and returned 48 hours later. Guido said he slept for a couple of hours before attending a Thursday morning USW Local 6500 membership meeting where he gave an update on the NYSE trip.
"I told them it wasn't a walk in the park," said Guido. "They were impressed."
The New York rally was staged as similar events were held in Sudbury, Toronto and Brazil, where Vale is headquartered.
When asked to comment on the Toronto demonstration, Vale Inco spokesman Steve Ball said Steelworkers were doing "what they feel is right to help their cause.
"We consider this is really another distraction and, unfortunately, the Steelworkers seem to be more committed to these kinds of events than they are to meaningful negotiations," said Ball.
"It would be nice if some of that time and effort was directed toward getting a deal done, and that can only be achieved when they commit to sitting down with us and dealing seriously with the issues that need to be discussed at the bargaining table."
Barack Obama: Good News for Latin America?
Barack Obama: Good News for Latin America?
Wednesday 28th October 7-9pm
Attlee Suite, Portcullis House,
Houses of Parliament
Speakers:
Jeremy Corbyn MP
The Ambassador of Bolivia, Beatriz Souviron
The Ambassador of Venezuela, Samuel Moncada
Katherine Ronderos, Central American Women’s Network and eyewitness from Honduras
Grace Livingstone, journalist and author of America’s Backyard: the United States and Latin America from the Monroe Doctrine to the War on Terror
Evening organized by Zed Books and Latin America Bureau
All Welcome.
Please allow half an hour to get through House of Commons
Security.
For further information, please contact marketing@zedbooks.net or call 020 7837 8466
For more information about America’s Backyard go to www.zedbooks.co.uk/americas_backyard
Wednesday 28th October 7-9pm
Attlee Suite, Portcullis House,
Houses of Parliament
Speakers:
Jeremy Corbyn MP
The Ambassador of Bolivia, Beatriz Souviron
The Ambassador of Venezuela, Samuel Moncada
Katherine Ronderos, Central American Women’s Network and eyewitness from Honduras
Grace Livingstone, journalist and author of America’s Backyard: the United States and Latin America from the Monroe Doctrine to the War on Terror
Evening organized by Zed Books and Latin America Bureau
All Welcome.
Please allow half an hour to get through House of Commons
Security.
For further information, please contact marketing@zedbooks.net or call 020 7837 8466
For more information about America’s Backyard go to www.zedbooks.co.uk/americas_backyard
Workers Uniting Group Hustings - South East
At a well attended meeting on October 31st in Ashford, members attending the meeting voted to support National Officer Brian Boyd.
See earlier posts re forthcoming Hustings meetings in London, South West, North East, North West, West Midlands, East Midlands and Scotland.
See earlier posts re forthcoming Hustings meetings in London, South West, North East, North West, West Midlands, East Midlands and Scotland.
Seven shipbreaking workers die in one week
From the International Metal Workers
Seven shipbreaking workers die in one week
Jahangir Alam, a shipbreaking worker who had migrated from the poverty stricken Rangpur district to work at the Habib steel shipbreaking yard in Chittagong, Bangladesh, died as a result of an accident at work on October 12, 2009. He was the seventh Bangladeshi shipbreaking worker to die in one week.
On October 11, three other shipbreaking workers at the Pakija shipyard died from inhaling poisonous gases. On October 8, three other workers were smashed to death by an iron-plate at the Crystal shipyard.
"The labour law is being blatantly violated and the police have recorded these incidents as un-natural deaths," reports Mojibur Rahman Bhuiyan, General Secretary of IMF affiliate the Bangladesh Metalworkers' League.
At a meeting between Sramik Karmachari Oikya Parishad (SKOP), an organization of workers and employees' organizations, and the Bangladesh State Labour Minister, on October 15, Bhuiyan demanded that the Minister investigate and punish the companies responsible for the deaths.
"This is murder by shipyard owners and we demand exemplary punishment. We can not allow this to happen anymore. No one can take advantage of poverty and unemployment. The government has a responsibility to create decent jobs," Bhuiyan said to the Minister.
BML also demanded a mechanism for inspecting the ships before their entrance into the Bangladeshi territory, and that the rights of labour are protected. The union also appealed for international solidarity to "stop these barbaric killings".
The IMF sent a letter to the Bangladeshi State Labour Minister in support of the shipbreaking workers, calling for immediate action to respect the rights and improve the health, safety and welfare of shipbreaking workers in Bangladesh.
To sign a petition calling on the G20 heads of states to do more to protect the rights of shipbreaking workers in Bangladesh, go here: http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/o/677/t/7078/petition.jsp?petition_KEY=2108
Seven shipbreaking workers die in one week
Jahangir Alam, a shipbreaking worker who had migrated from the poverty stricken Rangpur district to work at the Habib steel shipbreaking yard in Chittagong, Bangladesh, died as a result of an accident at work on October 12, 2009. He was the seventh Bangladeshi shipbreaking worker to die in one week.
On October 11, three other shipbreaking workers at the Pakija shipyard died from inhaling poisonous gases. On October 8, three other workers were smashed to death by an iron-plate at the Crystal shipyard.
"The labour law is being blatantly violated and the police have recorded these incidents as un-natural deaths," reports Mojibur Rahman Bhuiyan, General Secretary of IMF affiliate the Bangladesh Metalworkers' League.
At a meeting between Sramik Karmachari Oikya Parishad (SKOP), an organization of workers and employees' organizations, and the Bangladesh State Labour Minister, on October 15, Bhuiyan demanded that the Minister investigate and punish the companies responsible for the deaths.
"This is murder by shipyard owners and we demand exemplary punishment. We can not allow this to happen anymore. No one can take advantage of poverty and unemployment. The government has a responsibility to create decent jobs," Bhuiyan said to the Minister.
BML also demanded a mechanism for inspecting the ships before their entrance into the Bangladeshi territory, and that the rights of labour are protected. The union also appealed for international solidarity to "stop these barbaric killings".
The IMF sent a letter to the Bangladeshi State Labour Minister in support of the shipbreaking workers, calling for immediate action to respect the rights and improve the health, safety and welfare of shipbreaking workers in Bangladesh.
To sign a petition calling on the G20 heads of states to do more to protect the rights of shipbreaking workers in Bangladesh, go here: http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/o/677/t/7078/petition.jsp?petition_KEY=2108
Workers Uniting Group Hustings - South West
The Workers Uniting Group is the broad based left-progressive organisation within Unite the Union
In line with the policy to involve as many supporters and members as possible, and to have the widest possible debate the Workers Uniting Group is holding hustings meetings around the regions.
A Workers Uniting Group Hustings meeting in the South West regarding the future election of the Unite General Secretary will take place on:
Tuesday 10th November
GWR Social Club (Railway Club)
Clock Tower Yard Temple Meads
Bristol BS1 6QH.
Starting at 6pm
"Facing The Future"
Come and debate the future of Unite with:
Les Bayliss Assistant General Secretary
Brian Boyd, National Officer
Paul Reuter, National Officer
Workers Uniting Group operates an open door policy for these hustings meetings.
All Unite members welcome.
In line with the policy to involve as many supporters and members as possible, and to have the widest possible debate the Workers Uniting Group is holding hustings meetings around the regions.
A Workers Uniting Group Hustings meeting in the South West regarding the future election of the Unite General Secretary will take place on:
Tuesday 10th November
GWR Social Club (Railway Club)
Clock Tower Yard Temple Meads
Bristol BS1 6QH.
Starting at 6pm
"Facing The Future"
Come and debate the future of Unite with:
Les Bayliss Assistant General Secretary
Brian Boyd, National Officer
Paul Reuter, National Officer
Workers Uniting Group operates an open door policy for these hustings meetings.
All Unite members welcome.
Workers Uniting Group Hustings - North East
The Workers Uniting Group is the broad based left-progressive organisation within Unite the Union
In line with the policy to involve as many supporters and members as possible, and to have the widest possible debate the Workers Uniting Group is holding hustings meetings around the regions.
A Workers Uniting Group Hustings meeting in the North East regarding the future election of the Unite General Secretary will take place on:
Sunday 8th November 2009
Time – 11am
Venue - Sunderland Customer Services Centre, Bunny Hill, Hylton Road, Sunderland, SR5 4BW.
"Facing The Future"
Come and debate the future of Unite with:
Les Bayliss Assistant General Secretary
Brian Boyd, National Officer
Paul Reuter, National Officer
Workers Uniting Group operates an open door policy for these hustings meetings.
All Unite members welcome.
In line with the policy to involve as many supporters and members as possible, and to have the widest possible debate the Workers Uniting Group is holding hustings meetings around the regions.
A Workers Uniting Group Hustings meeting in the North East regarding the future election of the Unite General Secretary will take place on:
Sunday 8th November 2009
Time – 11am
Venue - Sunderland Customer Services Centre, Bunny Hill, Hylton Road, Sunderland, SR5 4BW.
"Facing The Future"
Come and debate the future of Unite with:
Les Bayliss Assistant General Secretary
Brian Boyd, National Officer
Paul Reuter, National Officer
Workers Uniting Group operates an open door policy for these hustings meetings.
All Unite members welcome.
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
TUC General Council - Full Support For CWU
At today's General Council the TUC expressed full support for the CWU in their dispute with the Royal Mail.
Here's the statement.
"The TUC General Council today (Wednesday) affirmed its full support for the CWU and its members in their current dispute with Royal Mail.
The General Council expressed its strong concern at the Royal Mail's recent decision to hire 30,000 temporary workers in the run up to Christmas, in an apparent move to undermine the union's plans to take legitimate industrial action.
The CWU has reiterated its determination to reach a fair settlement. The General Council is calling on Royal Mail to match this commitment, and to continue talks with the CWU, in an effort to reach an agreement on genuine modernisation which will underpin a successful and sustainable future for Royal Mail".
Here's the statement.
"The TUC General Council today (Wednesday) affirmed its full support for the CWU and its members in their current dispute with Royal Mail.
The General Council expressed its strong concern at the Royal Mail's recent decision to hire 30,000 temporary workers in the run up to Christmas, in an apparent move to undermine the union's plans to take legitimate industrial action.
The CWU has reiterated its determination to reach a fair settlement. The General Council is calling on Royal Mail to match this commitment, and to continue talks with the CWU, in an effort to reach an agreement on genuine modernisation which will underpin a successful and sustainable future for Royal Mail".
EMERGENCY PICKET OF THE US EMBASSY!
PLEASE CIRCULATE:
End the coup in Honduras!
End all US economic, political and military support to the dictatorship in Honduras now!
Defend human rights in Honduras!
No election without the restitution of Zelaya!
Wednesday November 4, 5.30-7.30pm
US Embassy, 24 Grosvenor Square, London, W1A 1A.
In a statement, Mr Zelaya urged Western Hemisphere countries to step up economic sanctions "against the de facto regime".
The BBC reports the words of the legitimate President of Honduras, Manuel Zelaya (October 17)
"Once again we call on the international community to remain steadfast and not to recognize the de facto regime.. The United States should apply direct sanctions against the perpetrators of the coup..We are not asking for sanctions against a nation, but to isolate the perpetrators of the coup."
Exiled Foreign Minister of Honduras, Patricia Rodas
End the coup in Honduras!
End all US economic, political and military support to the dictatorship in Honduras now!
Defend human rights in Honduras!
No election without the restitution of Zelaya!
Wednesday November 4, 5.30-7.30pm
US Embassy, 24 Grosvenor Square, London, W1A 1A.
In a statement, Mr Zelaya urged Western Hemisphere countries to step up economic sanctions "against the de facto regime".
The BBC reports the words of the legitimate President of Honduras, Manuel Zelaya (October 17)
"Once again we call on the international community to remain steadfast and not to recognize the de facto regime.. The United States should apply direct sanctions against the perpetrators of the coup..We are not asking for sanctions against a nation, but to isolate the perpetrators of the coup."
Exiled Foreign Minister of Honduras, Patricia Rodas
USW Dispute in Canada Worsens for Brazil’s largest Private Company
USW comrades on strike in this dispute will be visiting Unite in November, but in the meantime, the pressure being applied to support them is beginning to pay off as Vale dumps planned "showcase events".
This press release is from the USW in Pittsburgh and Toronto:
"The United Steelworkers (USW) criticized Vale’s recent decision to cancel planned investor events in New York and London as more evidence of a company in disarray.
Vale was scheduled to meet with key investors in New York on October 21 during “Vale Day on Wall Street” and in London on the 23rd. Vale appeared to want to hold these events prior to releasing its third quarter results on October 28.
“Vale has been trying to avoid our shining a light on their managerial misconduct,” said USW Canadian National Director Ken Neumann. “Now it appears to be trying to hide from hard questions that might be raised by investors and the media.”
Despite the cancelation of its own day on Wall Street, striking miners in Sudbury, Ontario will still hold its Vale Day today. Since Vale was planning to host a breakfast for investors, USW Local 6500 will host a breakfast on the picket line where some 3,500 miners have been out since July 13, 2009.
In New York today, a delegation of USW activists will join strikers from Sudbury and Port Colborne across the street from the New York Stock Exchange at Federal Hall where they’ll inform investors that the company is hiding from them, too. The USW wants the company to return to the bargaining table in Canada and calls on its top management to rekindle negotiations.
Strikers and other supporters will also conduct a demonstration at Vale offices in Toronto and in Rio today. “We want to make it perfectly clear to Vale that we’re not going away, no matter where they run,” said Joe Guido, a USW Local 6500 member.
The workers will reach out to the financial community in London on Friday, October 23, where Vale canceled another event with the investors. Updates on contract negotiations in Canada and Brazil will be provided.
Meanwhile the USW presses on with its global campaign. Director Ken Neumann and two USW miners on strike against Vale traveled last week to the German port of Brunsbüttel, Germany, following Vale copper mined in Canada. Joined by mining union leaders from Germany, Brazil, South Africa, Japan and other supporters they conducted a demonstration as a ship transporting 35,000 tons of copper concentrate from Voisey’s Bay, Labrador arrived.
A group of the leaders then met with the ship’s captain and a ship owners’ representative. The captain and agent were both supportive and said they would raise the issue directly with Vale and would inform the buyers of the copper about the dispute. The USW delegation held other meetings with leaders of unions in Germany and other European countries that have members at Vale operations and the operations of Vale’s customers.
The two striking miners traveling with Ken Neumann, Curtis Saunders and Aaron Beaudry, then traveled to Sweden to ask a customer, Boliden, to not purchase any copper concentrate from Vale until the strike at Vale’s Canadian operations is over. Board members at Boliden were upset by the report of the labor situation in Canada and promised to further discuss this situation with the company.
The meeting was arranged by IF Metall, Sweden’s largest private sector union. IF Metall represents the workers at the Boliden copper smelter in Rönnskärsverken that Vale supplies.
“We are receiving tremendous support globally from mining and transport workers’ unions,” said USW International President Leo W. Gerard. “We will go to wherever Vale has operations and tell customers and investors how this company is unfairly treating its workers in Canada, Brazil and elsewhere.”
This press release is from the USW in Pittsburgh and Toronto:
"The United Steelworkers (USW) criticized Vale’s recent decision to cancel planned investor events in New York and London as more evidence of a company in disarray.
Vale was scheduled to meet with key investors in New York on October 21 during “Vale Day on Wall Street” and in London on the 23rd. Vale appeared to want to hold these events prior to releasing its third quarter results on October 28.
“Vale has been trying to avoid our shining a light on their managerial misconduct,” said USW Canadian National Director Ken Neumann. “Now it appears to be trying to hide from hard questions that might be raised by investors and the media.”
Despite the cancelation of its own day on Wall Street, striking miners in Sudbury, Ontario will still hold its Vale Day today. Since Vale was planning to host a breakfast for investors, USW Local 6500 will host a breakfast on the picket line where some 3,500 miners have been out since July 13, 2009.
In New York today, a delegation of USW activists will join strikers from Sudbury and Port Colborne across the street from the New York Stock Exchange at Federal Hall where they’ll inform investors that the company is hiding from them, too. The USW wants the company to return to the bargaining table in Canada and calls on its top management to rekindle negotiations.
Strikers and other supporters will also conduct a demonstration at Vale offices in Toronto and in Rio today. “We want to make it perfectly clear to Vale that we’re not going away, no matter where they run,” said Joe Guido, a USW Local 6500 member.
The workers will reach out to the financial community in London on Friday, October 23, where Vale canceled another event with the investors. Updates on contract negotiations in Canada and Brazil will be provided.
Meanwhile the USW presses on with its global campaign. Director Ken Neumann and two USW miners on strike against Vale traveled last week to the German port of Brunsbüttel, Germany, following Vale copper mined in Canada. Joined by mining union leaders from Germany, Brazil, South Africa, Japan and other supporters they conducted a demonstration as a ship transporting 35,000 tons of copper concentrate from Voisey’s Bay, Labrador arrived.
A group of the leaders then met with the ship’s captain and a ship owners’ representative. The captain and agent were both supportive and said they would raise the issue directly with Vale and would inform the buyers of the copper about the dispute. The USW delegation held other meetings with leaders of unions in Germany and other European countries that have members at Vale operations and the operations of Vale’s customers.
The two striking miners traveling with Ken Neumann, Curtis Saunders and Aaron Beaudry, then traveled to Sweden to ask a customer, Boliden, to not purchase any copper concentrate from Vale until the strike at Vale’s Canadian operations is over. Board members at Boliden were upset by the report of the labor situation in Canada and promised to further discuss this situation with the company.
The meeting was arranged by IF Metall, Sweden’s largest private sector union. IF Metall represents the workers at the Boliden copper smelter in Rönnskärsverken that Vale supplies.
“We are receiving tremendous support globally from mining and transport workers’ unions,” said USW International President Leo W. Gerard. “We will go to wherever Vale has operations and tell customers and investors how this company is unfairly treating its workers in Canada, Brazil and elsewhere.”
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Workers Uniting Hustings - London
The Workers Uniting Group is the broad based left-progressive organisation within Unite the Union
In line with the policy to involve as many supporters and members as possible, and to have the widest possible debate the Workers Uniting Group is holding hustings meetings around the regions.
A Workers Uniting Group Hustings London meeting regarding the future election of the Unite General Secretary will take place on:
Wednesday November 11th
6.00pm for 6.30pm start
NUJ Head Office
Headland House
308-312 Gray's Inn Road
London
WC1X 8DP
"Facing The Future"
Come and debate the future of Unite with:
Les Bayliss Assistant General Secretary
Brian Boyd, National Officer
Paul Reuter, National Officer
Workers Uniting Group operates an open door policy for these hustings meetings.
All Unite members welcome.
In line with the policy to involve as many supporters and members as possible, and to have the widest possible debate the Workers Uniting Group is holding hustings meetings around the regions.
A Workers Uniting Group Hustings London meeting regarding the future election of the Unite General Secretary will take place on:
Wednesday November 11th
6.00pm for 6.30pm start
NUJ Head Office
Headland House
308-312 Gray's Inn Road
London
WC1X 8DP
"Facing The Future"
Come and debate the future of Unite with:
Les Bayliss Assistant General Secretary
Brian Boyd, National Officer
Paul Reuter, National Officer
Workers Uniting Group operates an open door policy for these hustings meetings.
All Unite members welcome.
Graham Goddard
As many comrades will know by now our good friend and comrade Graham Goddard, Unite DGS passed away early on Monday morning.
Below is a copy of the memo sent to Unite officers by Derek Simpson.
I am sure all comrades would want to share our deep sorrow at Graham's death at such a young age and send sincere condolences to Siobhan and their son Ted and Graham's family who will be in all our thoughts at this time.
Monday, 19th October 2009
Dear Colleagues
It is with immense sadness that I write to inform you that our joint Deputy General Secretary, Graham Goddard, passed away early this morning. Many of you will be aware that Graham, who was 51, had been ill for some time.
Graham joined the AEU as an apprentice engineer in Sheffield and soon became active in the Union. He was employed at Shardlows, an automotive parts manufacturer. Although this was a highly organised workplace with an existing mature shop stewards committee, he was quickly elected Deputy Convenor and then Convenor.
He became a Regional Officer based in Sheffield, following which he became Amicus Regional Secretary for Yorkshire and Humberside and later for the North West. Promoted to Deputy General Secretary, perhaps Graham's most notable achievement was the pensions campaign, of which he was at the forefront. Based upon his own experiences from Sheffield, he played a leading part in the efforts towards the creation of the Pension Protection Fund and the Financial Assistance Scheme. It is no exaggeration to say that thousands of workers and their families will benefit from Graham's work, now and in the future.
Graham also took over strategic management of the finance sector. Working with the senior lay leadership he led the unification of the insurance and banking sectors into a cohesive group, fit to fight on behalf of our many thousands of members right across the financial services industry.
More recently, Graham was involved in the detailed negotiations for the establishment of Unite's constitutional structures, to create a union that is fit to serve our members’ needs into the future. Both within and outside Unite he leaves a long lasting legacy.
I am sure everyone will join with me in extending our most profound sympathies to Graham's family and in particular his partner, our colleague, Siobhan and their son Ted.
We have lost a valued colleague and dear friend.
Derek Simpson
Joint General Secretary
Below is a copy of the memo sent to Unite officers by Derek Simpson.
I am sure all comrades would want to share our deep sorrow at Graham's death at such a young age and send sincere condolences to Siobhan and their son Ted and Graham's family who will be in all our thoughts at this time.
Monday, 19th October 2009
Dear Colleagues
It is with immense sadness that I write to inform you that our joint Deputy General Secretary, Graham Goddard, passed away early this morning. Many of you will be aware that Graham, who was 51, had been ill for some time.
Graham joined the AEU as an apprentice engineer in Sheffield and soon became active in the Union. He was employed at Shardlows, an automotive parts manufacturer. Although this was a highly organised workplace with an existing mature shop stewards committee, he was quickly elected Deputy Convenor and then Convenor.
He became a Regional Officer based in Sheffield, following which he became Amicus Regional Secretary for Yorkshire and Humberside and later for the North West. Promoted to Deputy General Secretary, perhaps Graham's most notable achievement was the pensions campaign, of which he was at the forefront. Based upon his own experiences from Sheffield, he played a leading part in the efforts towards the creation of the Pension Protection Fund and the Financial Assistance Scheme. It is no exaggeration to say that thousands of workers and their families will benefit from Graham's work, now and in the future.
Graham also took over strategic management of the finance sector. Working with the senior lay leadership he led the unification of the insurance and banking sectors into a cohesive group, fit to fight on behalf of our many thousands of members right across the financial services industry.
More recently, Graham was involved in the detailed negotiations for the establishment of Unite's constitutional structures, to create a union that is fit to serve our members’ needs into the future. Both within and outside Unite he leaves a long lasting legacy.
I am sure everyone will join with me in extending our most profound sympathies to Graham's family and in particular his partner, our colleague, Siobhan and their son Ted.
We have lost a valued colleague and dear friend.
Derek Simpson
Joint General Secretary
Message From Hope Not Hate
Despite widespread opposition Nick Griffin will be on Question Time this Thursday.
The BBC have made their decision - they are willing to let a leader of a fascist Party on their flagship show. Last week the BNP agreed to change its constitution for fear of being found guilty of having a racist and illegal membership policy. On Sunday, Griffin attacked and abused his fellow panelists Bonnie Greer and Baroness Warsi for not being white. And yet the BBC still allow him on. Griffin's presence is a stain on the BBC - and I know that you share my feelings of anger.
So I think we need to make a stand.
On Thursday afternoon we're going to the BBC to deliver the Question Time presenter, David Dimbleby, thousands of messages of hope from our supporters. Your stories, your experiences and your belief in an open and tolerant society will send the strongest possible rejection of the BNP's message of hate. You can send your message of hope here:
http://action.hopenothate.org.uk/questiontime
The BNP's goal is to divide us. It's to whip up fear and hatred in our communities and then exploit the anger that they've induced.
But we don't have to accept their hatred.
At a moment like this we need to rally together to send a message of defiance against the BNP. And Tony, you're best placed to do this. So why did you oppose the racist BNP? Why you are proud to live in our open and tolerant society?
Or quite simply, what message do you want to send Nick Griffin?
Tell us here:
http://action.hopenothate.org.uk/questiontime
Whatever you write, whatever story you tell, your words will speak for the majority of Britons. And when thousands of us come together in this action we can send a unified message of hope to counter Griffin's fractured message of hate.
Please join us in this moment - whether you write a single word or an entire essay we will take them all to the BBC and present them to David Dimbleby. We can't make the impact we need without you - please send a message now: your stories make our movement.
http://action.hopenothate.org.uk/questiontime
The BBC have made their decision - they are willing to let a leader of a fascist Party on their flagship show. Last week the BNP agreed to change its constitution for fear of being found guilty of having a racist and illegal membership policy. On Sunday, Griffin attacked and abused his fellow panelists Bonnie Greer and Baroness Warsi for not being white. And yet the BBC still allow him on. Griffin's presence is a stain on the BBC - and I know that you share my feelings of anger.
So I think we need to make a stand.
On Thursday afternoon we're going to the BBC to deliver the Question Time presenter, David Dimbleby, thousands of messages of hope from our supporters. Your stories, your experiences and your belief in an open and tolerant society will send the strongest possible rejection of the BNP's message of hate. You can send your message of hope here:
http://action.hopenothate.org.uk/questiontime
The BNP's goal is to divide us. It's to whip up fear and hatred in our communities and then exploit the anger that they've induced.
But we don't have to accept their hatred.
At a moment like this we need to rally together to send a message of defiance against the BNP. And Tony, you're best placed to do this. So why did you oppose the racist BNP? Why you are proud to live in our open and tolerant society?
Or quite simply, what message do you want to send Nick Griffin?
Tell us here:
http://action.hopenothate.org.uk/questiontime
Whatever you write, whatever story you tell, your words will speak for the majority of Britons. And when thousands of us come together in this action we can send a unified message of hope to counter Griffin's fractured message of hate.
Please join us in this moment - whether you write a single word or an entire essay we will take them all to the BBC and present them to David Dimbleby. We can't make the impact we need without you - please send a message now: your stories make our movement.
http://action.hopenothate.org.uk/questiontime
Workers Uniting Group Hustings - Scotland
The Workers Uniting Group is the broad based left-progressive organisation within Unite the Union
In line with the policy to involve as many supporters and members as possible, and to have the widest possible debate the Workers Uniting Group is holding hustings meetings around the regions.
A Workers Uniting Group Hustings meeting regarding the future election of the Unite General Secretary will take place on:
NOVEMBER 7th
Renfield Centre
260 Bath Street
Glasgow
G2 4JP
1030hrs - 1230hrs
"Facing The Future"
Come and debate the future of Unite with:
Les Bayliss Assistant General Secretary
Brian Boyd, National Officer
Paul Reuter, National Officer
Workers Uniting Group operates an open door policy for these hustings meetings.
All Unite members welcome.
In line with the policy to involve as many supporters and members as possible, and to have the widest possible debate the Workers Uniting Group is holding hustings meetings around the regions.
A Workers Uniting Group Hustings meeting regarding the future election of the Unite General Secretary will take place on:
NOVEMBER 7th
Renfield Centre
260 Bath Street
Glasgow
G2 4JP
1030hrs - 1230hrs
"Facing The Future"
Come and debate the future of Unite with:
Les Bayliss Assistant General Secretary
Brian Boyd, National Officer
Paul Reuter, National Officer
Workers Uniting Group operates an open door policy for these hustings meetings.
All Unite members welcome.
Workers Uniting Group Hustings - East Midlands
AN IMPORTANT NOMINATION MEETING WILL BE HELD AT
Hallmark Hotel Derby
Formerly Midland Hotel
Midland Road
Derby
DE1 2SQ
Monday 2nd November at 7.00pm until 9.00pm
The meeting has been arranged to nominate the Workers Uniting candidate for the 2010 - UNITE General Secretary Election, from the East Midlands Region.
All candidates that are committed to the aims and values of Workers Uniting have been invited to address the meeting; this will include a questions and answers session. Members will then have the opportunity to nominate a Regional candidate.
It is important that those elected represent the policies and values of members, this can only be achieved by groups of members working together in support of candidates committed to the aims of Workers Uniting, and will take Unite in the direction a modern and representative union.
Your Union! -Your Vote! - Your Say!
Shaping the future of Unite the Union
The meeting will be open to all Unite members who share the values of Workers Uniting within the East Midlands Region. Members are welcome to attend and take part in a debate with candidates.
Hallmark Hotel Derby
Formerly Midland Hotel
Midland Road
Derby
DE1 2SQ
Monday 2nd November at 7.00pm until 9.00pm
The meeting has been arranged to nominate the Workers Uniting candidate for the 2010 - UNITE General Secretary Election, from the East Midlands Region.
All candidates that are committed to the aims and values of Workers Uniting have been invited to address the meeting; this will include a questions and answers session. Members will then have the opportunity to nominate a Regional candidate.
It is important that those elected represent the policies and values of members, this can only be achieved by groups of members working together in support of candidates committed to the aims of Workers Uniting, and will take Unite in the direction a modern and representative union.
Your Union! -Your Vote! - Your Say!
Shaping the future of Unite the Union
The meeting will be open to all Unite members who share the values of Workers Uniting within the East Midlands Region. Members are welcome to attend and take part in a debate with candidates.
Sunday, October 18, 2009
West Midlands Hustings Meeting
WORKERS UNITING GROUP - WEST MIDLANDS HUSTINGS MEETING
The Workers Uniting Group is the broad based left-progressive organisation within Unite the Union
In line with the policy to involve as many supporters and members as possible, and to have the widest possible debate the Workers Uniting Group is holding hustings meetings around the regions.
A Workers Uniting Group Hustings meeting regarding the future election of the Unite General Secretary will take place on:
Tuesday, 3rd November
"Forget Me Not" Club,
1069 Tyburn Road,
Erdington, Birmingham,
B24 0TH
6.30 for 7.00pm.
"Facing The Future"
Come and debate the future of Unite with:
Les Bayliss Assistant General Secretary
Brian Boyd, National Officer
Paul Reuter, National Officer
Workers Uniting Group operates an open door policy for these hustings meetings.
All Unite members welcome.
The Workers Uniting Group is the broad based left-progressive organisation within Unite the Union
In line with the policy to involve as many supporters and members as possible, and to have the widest possible debate the Workers Uniting Group is holding hustings meetings around the regions.
A Workers Uniting Group Hustings meeting regarding the future election of the Unite General Secretary will take place on:
Tuesday, 3rd November
"Forget Me Not" Club,
1069 Tyburn Road,
Erdington, Birmingham,
B24 0TH
6.30 for 7.00pm.
"Facing The Future"
Come and debate the future of Unite with:
Les Bayliss Assistant General Secretary
Brian Boyd, National Officer
Paul Reuter, National Officer
Workers Uniting Group operates an open door policy for these hustings meetings.
All Unite members welcome.
Friday, October 16, 2009
In the City 2009 Unsigned Music Festival', Manchester, October 18th – 20th
Unite, is supporting the UK's emerging musicians by sponsoring the official 'In The City 2009: Your Manchester, Your Music' event kicking off this weekend in Manchester.
The festival is being held over three nights (18th, 19th and 20th October) showcasing local, national and international unsigned bands and artists at one of the city’s largest and most unique venues, The Moon Under Water, 68-74 Deansgate, Manchester, M3 2FN.
Unite will be joining festival goers at this year’s event offering information to members and promoting the value of trade union membership to gig goers
Unite's Lawrence Chapple-Gill, said: “This is a great opportunity for young people to get to hear what Unite can do for them and how we can help them in the workplace. Over the three nights Unite representatives will speak face-to-face with young people about trade unions and protecting their rights at work.
“We want to help young people understand the role of the trade union. Many young workers have little knowledge of what a union is or how it’s relevant to them. This event isn't just about us backing tomorrow's musical talent but also about us backing tomorrow's workers. Getting young people involved in their union is the best way of getting their voices heard.”
Headlining the event are three legendary Mancunian bands and artistes including Chameleons Vox, Tom Hingley (Inspiral Carpets) and 'Guitar George' himself, Mr George Borowski.
Lawrence will also be spinning the wheels of steel and DJ-ing just before and after the main event - Tom Hingley from The Inspiral Carpets,
Print worker, Unite member and organiser of the event, Mark Murray, said: “It's fantastic news that Unite has agreed to sponsor this event in Manchester, allowing us to promote Unite and the importance of unions in every single JD Wetherspoon and Lloyds No.1 Bar across the north west. The festival is aimed at uniting young people from all over the UK in the hope of catching a glimpse of the next big thing.”
Last year, the three day "Unsigned" showcase was hailed by the Manchester Evening News as the 'Pick of the Fringe Events in 2008.'
For further information please contact Lawrence Chapple Gill on 07876444773
The festival is being held over three nights (18th, 19th and 20th October) showcasing local, national and international unsigned bands and artists at one of the city’s largest and most unique venues, The Moon Under Water, 68-74 Deansgate, Manchester, M3 2FN.
Unite will be joining festival goers at this year’s event offering information to members and promoting the value of trade union membership to gig goers
Unite's Lawrence Chapple-Gill, said: “This is a great opportunity for young people to get to hear what Unite can do for them and how we can help them in the workplace. Over the three nights Unite representatives will speak face-to-face with young people about trade unions and protecting their rights at work.
“We want to help young people understand the role of the trade union. Many young workers have little knowledge of what a union is or how it’s relevant to them. This event isn't just about us backing tomorrow's musical talent but also about us backing tomorrow's workers. Getting young people involved in their union is the best way of getting their voices heard.”
Headlining the event are three legendary Mancunian bands and artistes including Chameleons Vox, Tom Hingley (Inspiral Carpets) and 'Guitar George' himself, Mr George Borowski.
Lawrence will also be spinning the wheels of steel and DJ-ing just before and after the main event - Tom Hingley from The Inspiral Carpets,
Print worker, Unite member and organiser of the event, Mark Murray, said: “It's fantastic news that Unite has agreed to sponsor this event in Manchester, allowing us to promote Unite and the importance of unions in every single JD Wetherspoon and Lloyds No.1 Bar across the north west. The festival is aimed at uniting young people from all over the UK in the hope of catching a glimpse of the next big thing.”
Last year, the three day "Unsigned" showcase was hailed by the Manchester Evening News as the 'Pick of the Fringe Events in 2008.'
For further information please contact Lawrence Chapple Gill on 07876444773
Pleural Plaques Campaign Makes Progress
At the recent TUC Congress the whole union movement supported the campaign for compensation for victims of Pleural Plaques. The video about the victims of Plaques has received some fantastic exposure - it was played on the BBC news numerous times and lots of newspapers have written articles about it as well.
The campaign is continuing to pick up momentum - now we need to pile on the pressure for a final push for justice. The Government are currently making their decision about whether or not to change the law on Plaques - we need to make sure that they know the strength of feeling out there so they do the right thing.
There is now a tool on the website which lets you send an email straight to two of the key players in this issue - Peter Mandelson and Alistair Darling - which calls on them to do the right thing and provide the help that sufferers of Plaques need. Sending your email will take less than 30 seconds - but as thousands of people are involved in this campaign, if everyone acts then together we can make a big difference.
Send your message now:
http://www.facebook.com/l/e3521;www.unionstogether.org.uk/acallforjustice
The campaign is continuing to pick up momentum - now we need to pile on the pressure for a final push for justice. The Government are currently making their decision about whether or not to change the law on Plaques - we need to make sure that they know the strength of feeling out there so they do the right thing.
There is now a tool on the website which lets you send an email straight to two of the key players in this issue - Peter Mandelson and Alistair Darling - which calls on them to do the right thing and provide the help that sufferers of Plaques need. Sending your email will take less than 30 seconds - but as thousands of people are involved in this campaign, if everyone acts then together we can make a big difference.
Send your message now:
http://www.facebook.com/l/e3521;www.unionstogether.org.uk/acallforjustice
No pay ‘wipe out’ but another year of low pay rises to come, predicts LRD
Labour Research Department’s (LRD) comprehensive annual pay round analysis suggests that 2009-10 could be another year of hard bargaining, and low average pay rises, with a picture similar to the one we have seen in the last three months. What is more, if pay freezes in the public sector go ahead, the pay picture could dip again, and with it the strength of demand in the economy.
Of particular concern is that LRD’s Payline database shows a decline in the number of new long-term deals: that is, pay agreements providing a formula covering more than one year – sometimes inflation-linked – used in both the public and private sectors.
Throughout this year, LRD has argued that one reason for the slowing, rather than total ‘wipe out’, of pay rises during the recession has been the strong presence of pre-negotiated long-term deals between employers and unions, which on the whole have been honoured. These deals have provided an element of pay stability across the economy and in many cases have delivered higher than average rises.
However, it is clear from LRD’s analysis that many of these deals terminate this year, and are not being renewed. Only 15% of all settlements next year will be the result of existing long term deals, in comparison with more than one-quarter this year (26%): that is, around one in seven compared to one in four.
Added to possible public sector pay freezes, depending on the outcome of next year’s election, this could paint a grim picture for average pay settlements, and thus one element of economic stability, for the year to come.
Where pay deals are already known for 2009-10, LRD’s database indicates that the pattern looks similar to 2009. Wage freezes will continue (for example at Jaguar LandRover and in the plumbing industry) along with very low increases. But the majority of settlements are likely to be around 2-2.5% (for example Ford, Balfour Beatty Rail and Shell UK Oil). What is more, there are still some, as this year, expecting to receive above 4% (for example the electrical contracting agreement and Hull Trains).
“The partial retreat from long-term deals could result in more subdued pay growth in 2010,” said Lewis Emery, LRD’s pay and conditions researcher.
“We have seen some pick-up of pay settlement levels since April. However, at least four crucial questions overshadow the chances of continuing pay growth: will current pay freezes be lifted? What kind of pay offers will employers make with fewer long-term deals setting the pace? Will RPI inflation return? And most decisively of all, what will happen with public sector pay?”
LRD’s whole-year analysis shows that 2008-09 has been a pay-round of two halves.
From August until Christmas 2008, pay rises continued to average around 3.8% (mid-point). But from January there was a surge in pay freezes, and the pay picture split between those receiving wage freezes or even in some cases cuts, and those whose wage settlements remained well into positive figures.
April 2009 was the bleakest month for pay, with 27% of April deals being wage freezes or cuts, and another 20% receiving less than 2%. The overall pay rise median for April was just 1.7%. Since then there has been a marginal improvement.
Averaged over the whole year, however, the picture does not look quite so bleak. From August 2008-July 2009, 30% overall received less than a 2% rise, including cuts and freezes, covering almost one-third of the workforce; however, a significant 22% (over one-fifth) of deals were for 4% or more, covering 13% of the workforce. This leaves over two-fifths (41%) of deals achieving between 2% and 3.99%, applying to almost half (49%) of workers.
There was no significant difference in median (mid-point) between public and private sectors (2.6% for both) over the year. However, the range of private sector pay deals has been greater, with more freezes and low-paying deals and also more high-paying deals than the public sector.
The analysis is based on 774 known pay deals during 2008-09 from LRD’s Payline database of over 2,300 agreements on pay, terms and conditions.
Of particular concern is that LRD’s Payline database shows a decline in the number of new long-term deals: that is, pay agreements providing a formula covering more than one year – sometimes inflation-linked – used in both the public and private sectors.
Throughout this year, LRD has argued that one reason for the slowing, rather than total ‘wipe out’, of pay rises during the recession has been the strong presence of pre-negotiated long-term deals between employers and unions, which on the whole have been honoured. These deals have provided an element of pay stability across the economy and in many cases have delivered higher than average rises.
However, it is clear from LRD’s analysis that many of these deals terminate this year, and are not being renewed. Only 15% of all settlements next year will be the result of existing long term deals, in comparison with more than one-quarter this year (26%): that is, around one in seven compared to one in four.
Added to possible public sector pay freezes, depending on the outcome of next year’s election, this could paint a grim picture for average pay settlements, and thus one element of economic stability, for the year to come.
Where pay deals are already known for 2009-10, LRD’s database indicates that the pattern looks similar to 2009. Wage freezes will continue (for example at Jaguar LandRover and in the plumbing industry) along with very low increases. But the majority of settlements are likely to be around 2-2.5% (for example Ford, Balfour Beatty Rail and Shell UK Oil). What is more, there are still some, as this year, expecting to receive above 4% (for example the electrical contracting agreement and Hull Trains).
“The partial retreat from long-term deals could result in more subdued pay growth in 2010,” said Lewis Emery, LRD’s pay and conditions researcher.
“We have seen some pick-up of pay settlement levels since April. However, at least four crucial questions overshadow the chances of continuing pay growth: will current pay freezes be lifted? What kind of pay offers will employers make with fewer long-term deals setting the pace? Will RPI inflation return? And most decisively of all, what will happen with public sector pay?”
LRD’s whole-year analysis shows that 2008-09 has been a pay-round of two halves.
From August until Christmas 2008, pay rises continued to average around 3.8% (mid-point). But from January there was a surge in pay freezes, and the pay picture split between those receiving wage freezes or even in some cases cuts, and those whose wage settlements remained well into positive figures.
April 2009 was the bleakest month for pay, with 27% of April deals being wage freezes or cuts, and another 20% receiving less than 2%. The overall pay rise median for April was just 1.7%. Since then there has been a marginal improvement.
Averaged over the whole year, however, the picture does not look quite so bleak. From August 2008-July 2009, 30% overall received less than a 2% rise, including cuts and freezes, covering almost one-third of the workforce; however, a significant 22% (over one-fifth) of deals were for 4% or more, covering 13% of the workforce. This leaves over two-fifths (41%) of deals achieving between 2% and 3.99%, applying to almost half (49%) of workers.
There was no significant difference in median (mid-point) between public and private sectors (2.6% for both) over the year. However, the range of private sector pay deals has been greater, with more freezes and low-paying deals and also more high-paying deals than the public sector.
The analysis is based on 774 known pay deals during 2008-09 from LRD’s Payline database of over 2,300 agreements on pay, terms and conditions.
Anger Over Agency Workers Delay
Once again the Government has caved into employer pressure and has announced that there will be a delay to the full implementation of legislation to ensure equal treatment for agency workers.
Tony Woodley said: "This is a scandal. For too long, agency status has been used to undercut wages and casualise workplaces. There is not a workplace in the land that has escaped the rot of temporary work and two-tier wages. This divides not just workplaces, but towns and communities and it must end.
"Delaying the implementation of the equal treatment law until 2011 prolongs the mistreatment of nearly a million workers around the country. This government said it would act to end insecurity at work and we expect it to make good on that commitment, not next year, nor the year after, but today.
"Working people were promised that they would be protected now, and we will not accept any moves to dilute, delay or kick this into the long grass."
At the Labour Party Conference Unite AGS Tony Burke called for the Directive to implemented immediately and told the Government to stop pussyfooting around and stop creating loopholes
Tony Woodley said: "This is a scandal. For too long, agency status has been used to undercut wages and casualise workplaces. There is not a workplace in the land that has escaped the rot of temporary work and two-tier wages. This divides not just workplaces, but towns and communities and it must end.
"Delaying the implementation of the equal treatment law until 2011 prolongs the mistreatment of nearly a million workers around the country. This government said it would act to end insecurity at work and we expect it to make good on that commitment, not next year, nor the year after, but today.
"Working people were promised that they would be protected now, and we will not accept any moves to dilute, delay or kick this into the long grass."
At the Labour Party Conference Unite AGS Tony Burke called for the Directive to implemented immediately and told the Government to stop pussyfooting around and stop creating loopholes
Urgent! Demo Outsie Marks & Sparks Birmingham
Protest to defend 54 sacked 2 Sisters workers
11.00am outside the M&S Store in High Street, Birmingham,
Saturday 17th October
Support over 54 innocent men and women who have been sacked for the supposed crimes of challenging racism and defending their union reps who also face the sack.
54 workers at the 2 Sisters poultry processor's site A plant in Birmingham have been unfairly dismissed for defending their union reps against racist abuse.
This followed an incident in a factory employing overwhelmingly migrant workers when a shop steward was abused by a security guard who called him a “P*ki b*stard”. The shop steward was then disciplined but no action was taken against the security guard.
The decision to commence a campaign of demonstrations outside of M&S, a major client of 2 Sisters, follows the failure of M&S at the highest level to intervene.
The disciplined shop steward appealed and his appeal was turned down. The plant convenor went to his aid and was suspended. 54 workers then stopped work and five shop stewards acted immediately to get them to resume production. The five shop stewards were then suspended, together with the 54 workers. A disciplinary investigation is now underway into the convenor and the five shop stewards, a process described by Unite as “a farce of a trial with the verdict delivered in advance”.
2 Sisters is one of the companies under investigation by the Equalities and Human Rights Commission which is conducting its first Inquiry into division in the world of work and damage to social cohesion caused by the exploitation of newly arrived migrant workers and undercutting of indigenous workers in the 50,000 strong Meat Industry.
2 Sisters supplies to most of the major supermarkets in Britain. The decision to commence a campaign of demonstrations outside of M&S follows the failure of M&S at the highest level to intervene. M&S proposed to Unite and 2 Sisters a year ago a tripartite initiative to promote a vision of 'Ethical Model Factories' with fair and equal treatment of all workers at their heart. Despite the poor reputation of 2 Sisters in the meat industry, Unite agreed. M&S has now washed its hands of responsibility.
Jack Dromey Unite DGS said: “In good faith, we sought to build a better relationship with 2 Sisters, working with M&S. But 2 Sisters has repeatedly broken promises to improve. Now we have 54 workers sacked, triggered off by racist abuse. If the term “P*ki” is unacceptable on the dance floor, then there can never be BNP language on the shop floor. I am disappointed that M&S has gone backwards but it cannot escape its responsibilities now to move things forward.”
A growing coalition of business and community leaders will demonstrate together with the sacked 2 Sisters workers this Saturday outside of the main M&S Store in High Street, Birmingham. Unite will then be stepping up its campaign next week, further details to follow.
11.00am outside the M&S Store in High Street, Birmingham,
Saturday 17th October
Support over 54 innocent men and women who have been sacked for the supposed crimes of challenging racism and defending their union reps who also face the sack.
54 workers at the 2 Sisters poultry processor's site A plant in Birmingham have been unfairly dismissed for defending their union reps against racist abuse.
This followed an incident in a factory employing overwhelmingly migrant workers when a shop steward was abused by a security guard who called him a “P*ki b*stard”. The shop steward was then disciplined but no action was taken against the security guard.
The decision to commence a campaign of demonstrations outside of M&S, a major client of 2 Sisters, follows the failure of M&S at the highest level to intervene.
The disciplined shop steward appealed and his appeal was turned down. The plant convenor went to his aid and was suspended. 54 workers then stopped work and five shop stewards acted immediately to get them to resume production. The five shop stewards were then suspended, together with the 54 workers. A disciplinary investigation is now underway into the convenor and the five shop stewards, a process described by Unite as “a farce of a trial with the verdict delivered in advance”.
2 Sisters is one of the companies under investigation by the Equalities and Human Rights Commission which is conducting its first Inquiry into division in the world of work and damage to social cohesion caused by the exploitation of newly arrived migrant workers and undercutting of indigenous workers in the 50,000 strong Meat Industry.
2 Sisters supplies to most of the major supermarkets in Britain. The decision to commence a campaign of demonstrations outside of M&S follows the failure of M&S at the highest level to intervene. M&S proposed to Unite and 2 Sisters a year ago a tripartite initiative to promote a vision of 'Ethical Model Factories' with fair and equal treatment of all workers at their heart. Despite the poor reputation of 2 Sisters in the meat industry, Unite agreed. M&S has now washed its hands of responsibility.
Jack Dromey Unite DGS said: “In good faith, we sought to build a better relationship with 2 Sisters, working with M&S. But 2 Sisters has repeatedly broken promises to improve. Now we have 54 workers sacked, triggered off by racist abuse. If the term “P*ki” is unacceptable on the dance floor, then there can never be BNP language on the shop floor. I am disappointed that M&S has gone backwards but it cannot escape its responsibilities now to move things forward.”
A growing coalition of business and community leaders will demonstrate together with the sacked 2 Sisters workers this Saturday outside of the main M&S Store in High Street, Birmingham. Unite will then be stepping up its campaign next week, further details to follow.
Tribune article - October 15th
New shortlist in Unite election campaign
October 15, 2009 11:58 pm Tribune web editor frontpage, news
by René Lavanchy
Unite assistant general secretary Les Bayliss was this week leading in a bid to win a nomination to run in next year’s general secretary election.
He came first in the first hustings meeting organised by the Workers Uniting Group faction in Doncaster last week. National officers Paul Reuter and Brian Boyd came second and third in the poll of about 45 members.
The winning candidate will compete alongside assistant general secretary Len McCluskey from the T&G, who won the United Left faction’s nomination last month. A fifth possible candidate, Jerry Hicks, is still considering running.
Mr Bayliss, from the former Amicus side of Unite, told Tribune many ex-T&G members were backing him: “The support I’ve been getting across Unite has been encouraging”.
Mr Reuter, who also claims support from the T&G, said Unite needed to do more to become one union: “We’re still running as two unions. No organisation can run with two at the head.”
Mr Boyd shrugged off his vote: “There’ll be areas of support in different regions for all the candidates.” Nine more hustings are planned, with the final result expected in mid-November.
October 15, 2009 11:58 pm Tribune web editor frontpage, news
by René Lavanchy
Unite assistant general secretary Les Bayliss was this week leading in a bid to win a nomination to run in next year’s general secretary election.
He came first in the first hustings meeting organised by the Workers Uniting Group faction in Doncaster last week. National officers Paul Reuter and Brian Boyd came second and third in the poll of about 45 members.
The winning candidate will compete alongside assistant general secretary Len McCluskey from the T&G, who won the United Left faction’s nomination last month. A fifth possible candidate, Jerry Hicks, is still considering running.
Mr Bayliss, from the former Amicus side of Unite, told Tribune many ex-T&G members were backing him: “The support I’ve been getting across Unite has been encouraging”.
Mr Reuter, who also claims support from the T&G, said Unite needed to do more to become one union: “We’re still running as two unions. No organisation can run with two at the head.”
Mr Boyd shrugged off his vote: “There’ll be areas of support in different regions for all the candidates.” Nine more hustings are planned, with the final result expected in mid-November.
Hustings Meeting - North West
HUSTINGS MEETING!!!!
WORKERS UNITING GROUP
The Workers Uniting Group is the broad based
left-progressive organisation within Unite the Union
In line with the policy to involve as many supporters as possible, and to have the widest possible debate the Workers Uniting Group is holding hustings meetings around the regions.
A Workers Uniting Group Hustings meeting regarding the future election of the Unite General Secretary will take place on:
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14th
10.30am - 12.45pm
PETERLOO ROOM, MECHANICS INSTITUTE
MANCHESTER
"Facing The Future"
Come and debate the future of Unite with:
Les Bayliss Assistant General Secretary
Brian Boyd, National Officer
Paul Reuter, National Officer
Workers Uniting Group operates an open door policy for these hustings meetings.
All Unite members welcome.
WORKERS UNITING GROUP
The Workers Uniting Group is the broad based
left-progressive organisation within Unite the Union
In line with the policy to involve as many supporters as possible, and to have the widest possible debate the Workers Uniting Group is holding hustings meetings around the regions.
A Workers Uniting Group Hustings meeting regarding the future election of the Unite General Secretary will take place on:
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14th
10.30am - 12.45pm
PETERLOO ROOM, MECHANICS INSTITUTE
MANCHESTER
"Facing The Future"
Come and debate the future of Unite with:
Les Bayliss Assistant General Secretary
Brian Boyd, National Officer
Paul Reuter, National Officer
Workers Uniting Group operates an open door policy for these hustings meetings.
All Unite members welcome.
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Workers Uniting Group Hustings - South East
A Workers Uniting Group Hustings meeting regarding the future election of the Unite General Secretary will take place on:
October 21st, 2009
at 6.30pm
Venue:
Ashford International Hotel, Simone Weil Avenue, Ashford, Kent, TN24 8UX
"Facing The Future"
Come and debate the future of Unite with
Les Bayliss Assistant General Sectretary
Brian Boyd, National Officer
Paul Reuter, National Officer
Workers Uniting Group operates an open door policy for these hustings meetings and all Unite members are welcome to attend.
October 21st, 2009
at 6.30pm
Venue:
Ashford International Hotel, Simone Weil Avenue, Ashford, Kent, TN24 8UX
"Facing The Future"
Come and debate the future of Unite with
Les Bayliss Assistant General Sectretary
Brian Boyd, National Officer
Paul Reuter, National Officer
Workers Uniting Group operates an open door policy for these hustings meetings and all Unite members are welcome to attend.
Monday, October 12, 2009
Workers Uniting Group - GS Election Hustings To Go Ahead
Three comrades have advised the Workers Uniting Group the broad based left-progressive organisation within Unite the Union, that they will be seeking the support of the Workers Uniting Group in the ballot for the new General Secretary of Unite.
These are: Les Bayliss, Assistant General Secretary; Brian Boyd, National Officer and Paul Reuter, National Officer.
In order to ensure as wide as possible Unite membership participation in the process a series of "hustings meetings" are now being arranged on a regional basis.
Details of these meetings will be published on this website, in the media and sent to the supplied individual supporters email addresses.
These meetings will be open to all Unite members within a region. Members are welcome to attend and take part in a debate with candidates.
More details to follow.
These are: Les Bayliss, Assistant General Secretary; Brian Boyd, National Officer and Paul Reuter, National Officer.
In order to ensure as wide as possible Unite membership participation in the process a series of "hustings meetings" are now being arranged on a regional basis.
Details of these meetings will be published on this website, in the media and sent to the supplied individual supporters email addresses.
These meetings will be open to all Unite members within a region. Members are welcome to attend and take part in a debate with candidates.
More details to follow.
RESTORE DEMOCRACY IN HONDURAS - Meeting 14th October
RESTORE DEMOCRACY IN HONDURAS
No more dictators in Latin America
End all US financial support to the coup
Public Meeting — Wednesday 14 October, 7.30pm
Speakers will include:
Ken Livingstone
Tony Lloyd MP, Chair, Parliamentary Labour Party
Colin Burgon MP
Dr Francisco Dominguez, Head of Latin America Studies, Middlesex Uni
Further speakers TBC
Plus videos and messages from Honduras
Venue: Unite the Union Building, 128 Theobalds Road, London, WC1X 8TN (Nearest tube: Holborn.)
Last month President Zelaya returned to Honduras after being ousted in a military coup. He has since been taking refuge in the Brazilian Embassy. When tens of thousands took to the streets to welcome President Zelaya back, the Honduran coup regime responded with widespread violence. A number of people have been killed as a result of repression and a clampdown on civil liberties has seen hundreds arrested and the closure of independent media.
This public meeting will update on the situation in Honduras and how we can offer solidarity to help bring President Zelaya back to the Presidency and restore democracy in Honduras.
Supported by:
This meeting is part of the activities of the Emergency Committee Against the Coup in Honduras. The Committee involves Venezuela Solidarity Campaign, Cuba Solidarity Campaign, Nicaragua Solidarity Campaign, Labour Friends of Venezuela, UNITE the Union, UNITE London & Eastern Regions, South East Region TUC, and other bodies of the British Labour movement and Latin American communities.
Visit the blog at http://committeeagainsthondurascoup.blogspot.com.
For more information email: notohondurascoup@googlemail.com
No more dictators in Latin America
End all US financial support to the coup
Public Meeting — Wednesday 14 October, 7.30pm
Speakers will include:
Ken Livingstone
Tony Lloyd MP, Chair, Parliamentary Labour Party
Colin Burgon MP
Dr Francisco Dominguez, Head of Latin America Studies, Middlesex Uni
Further speakers TBC
Plus videos and messages from Honduras
Venue: Unite the Union Building, 128 Theobalds Road, London, WC1X 8TN (Nearest tube: Holborn.)
Last month President Zelaya returned to Honduras after being ousted in a military coup. He has since been taking refuge in the Brazilian Embassy. When tens of thousands took to the streets to welcome President Zelaya back, the Honduran coup regime responded with widespread violence. A number of people have been killed as a result of repression and a clampdown on civil liberties has seen hundreds arrested and the closure of independent media.
This public meeting will update on the situation in Honduras and how we can offer solidarity to help bring President Zelaya back to the Presidency and restore democracy in Honduras.
Supported by:
This meeting is part of the activities of the Emergency Committee Against the Coup in Honduras. The Committee involves Venezuela Solidarity Campaign, Cuba Solidarity Campaign, Nicaragua Solidarity Campaign, Labour Friends of Venezuela, UNITE the Union, UNITE London & Eastern Regions, South East Region TUC, and other bodies of the British Labour movement and Latin American communities.
Visit the blog at http://committeeagainsthondurascoup.blogspot.com.
For more information email: notohondurascoup@googlemail.com
Martian Poetry
To whoever completes the the boxes on the sign in section of this website with Martian poetry on a regular basis - Example as follows. Knock it off!
address1: tfjrNIjukwhgMjatG
address2: LhdpMOHmWhef
address3: LMFaVFRwemDN
address4: BLNZfbQBtTiCQJHzcL
postcode: 2326
jobtitle: OmZWeyhORbnlwMh
placeofwork1: oqaFlMRFWV
placeofwork2: QzbIvEwmDhueCs
Wow what a wheeze!
address1: tfjrNIjukwhgMjatG
address2: LhdpMOHmWhef
address3: LMFaVFRwemDN
address4: BLNZfbQBtTiCQJHzcL
postcode: 2326
jobtitle: OmZWeyhORbnlwMh
placeofwork1: oqaFlMRFWV
placeofwork2: QzbIvEwmDhueCs
Wow what a wheeze!
Fujitsu Ballot Starts Today!
Fujitsu staff to vote on industrial action
IT services firm Fujitsu are to face a ballot for industrial action this week in a dispute about redundancies and the proposed closure of its final-salary pension scheme.
The Japanese company, which employs 12,500 people in the UK, had announced its intention in August to cut 1,200 jobs and close the defined-benefit pension scheme – which has 4,000 current members – for future accrual. The plans have angered the Unite union, which says they are unnecessary and the business is still doing well.
Unite will ballot its members at Fujitsu from today and the result is expected at the end of the month.
A previous consultative ballot had indicated that 87 per cent of unionised staff were in favour of a strike.
Peter Skyte, Unite national officer, said: “Members are asking why they should lose their jobs or tighten their belts when last year the company paid about £150 million to shareholders and £1.6 million to two directors as compensation for loss of office.”
Skyte added: “Fujitsu remains a highly profitable company and our members insist that it must treat them fairly, increase pay, provide decent pensions and consult meaningfully to minimise job losses and avoid compulsory redundancies.”
IT services firm Fujitsu are to face a ballot for industrial action this week in a dispute about redundancies and the proposed closure of its final-salary pension scheme.
The Japanese company, which employs 12,500 people in the UK, had announced its intention in August to cut 1,200 jobs and close the defined-benefit pension scheme – which has 4,000 current members – for future accrual. The plans have angered the Unite union, which says they are unnecessary and the business is still doing well.
Unite will ballot its members at Fujitsu from today and the result is expected at the end of the month.
A previous consultative ballot had indicated that 87 per cent of unionised staff were in favour of a strike.
Peter Skyte, Unite national officer, said: “Members are asking why they should lose their jobs or tighten their belts when last year the company paid about £150 million to shareholders and £1.6 million to two directors as compensation for loss of office.”
Skyte added: “Fujitsu remains a highly profitable company and our members insist that it must treat them fairly, increase pay, provide decent pensions and consult meaningfully to minimise job losses and avoid compulsory redundancies.”
BA Dispute - Brian Boyd National Officer says: Ultimatum puts our members' jobs and livelihoods under serious attack"
Unite urges BA to step back from the brink
Unite, has denounced the airline's attempt to impose significant contractural changes on its 14,000 cabin crew employees, and introduce a second tier workforce on poorer pay and conditions.
BA has told cabin crew that they must accept these impositions by November 16th or leave the company.
Unite has said that the airline must remove the imposed changes and resume talks or risk a serious, drawn out confrontation with its workforce.
A fuller statement on Unite's next steps will be issued later this week.
Brian Boyd, Unite national officer added: "BA's ultimatum puts our members' jobs and livelihoods under serious attack, and further damages the reputation of our national carrier.
"Unite and its cabin crew members have said all along that we wanted to negotiate a shared solution to the short-term financial problems facing BA. Earlier this year, Unite tabled changes amounting to £140 million in savings for the business. These could have been banked months ago, putting cash into the business while retaining the airline's integrity and sustaining good industrial relations.
"These were dismissed out of hand by BA's management and now it is clear why. Sadly, the company is not interested in compromise, preferring conflict with its workforce."
Unite believes the new contractural changes are an attempt to force staff to pay the price for management failings with the company wringing more and more out of fewer and fewer staff who will be paid less. Working hours will be extended, crew levels will be slashed, career opportunities will disappear and new starters will be brought in on bargain basement wages. Unite says this will inevitably damage customer service and hit the brand, possibly leaving it beyond repair.
Unite, has denounced the airline's attempt to impose significant contractural changes on its 14,000 cabin crew employees, and introduce a second tier workforce on poorer pay and conditions.
BA has told cabin crew that they must accept these impositions by November 16th or leave the company.
Unite has said that the airline must remove the imposed changes and resume talks or risk a serious, drawn out confrontation with its workforce.
A fuller statement on Unite's next steps will be issued later this week.
Brian Boyd, Unite national officer added: "BA's ultimatum puts our members' jobs and livelihoods under serious attack, and further damages the reputation of our national carrier.
"Unite and its cabin crew members have said all along that we wanted to negotiate a shared solution to the short-term financial problems facing BA. Earlier this year, Unite tabled changes amounting to £140 million in savings for the business. These could have been banked months ago, putting cash into the business while retaining the airline's integrity and sustaining good industrial relations.
"These were dismissed out of hand by BA's management and now it is clear why. Sadly, the company is not interested in compromise, preferring conflict with its workforce."
Unite believes the new contractural changes are an attempt to force staff to pay the price for management failings with the company wringing more and more out of fewer and fewer staff who will be paid less. Working hours will be extended, crew levels will be slashed, career opportunities will disappear and new starters will be brought in on bargain basement wages. Unite says this will inevitably damage customer service and hit the brand, possibly leaving it beyond repair.
Liaison Committee For The Defence Of Trade Unions
The LCDTU have published the following statement by Unite AGS Les Bayliss on the future for the Left in Unite.
http://www.lcdtu.co.uk/index.html
http://www.lcdtu.co.uk/index.html
Friday, October 2, 2009
Bank Reform Is Smokescreen Says MacGregor
Reacting to the Government's Banking Reform Proposals Rob MacGregor, Unite national officer said: "This agreement is a smoke screen designed to deflect criticism away from those who brought our banking system to it's knees. The industry remains over populated with the greedy, arrogant and corrupt. British banks at the forefront of the financial crisis should take a lead in establishing the integrity and reputation of the UK's financial sector."
Unite calls on Miliband to "right the wrong" of the Miami Five
Speaking on the plight of the families of the Miami 5 at the Labour Party conference on October 1st, Unite assistant general secretary Tony Burke said:
On the Miami Five: "I want to remind this conference about the disgraceful attack on human rights that the USA is continuing against Cuba through the economic blockade and through the unjust imprisonment of the Miami 5.
"This wrong is compounded by the outrageous treatment that the wives and children of these five Cubans have suffered through the denial of basic human right to visit their husbands and fathers.
Our Foreign Office ministers should make clear to Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama that the refusal of visitation rights for the wives and children of the Miami 5 for the past 11 years is a fundamental breach of human rights, contrary both to the standards for the humane treatment of prisoners and to a state's obligation to protect family life.
David (Miliband - UK foreign secretary) – help us to right this wrong!"
On the Miami Five: "I want to remind this conference about the disgraceful attack on human rights that the USA is continuing against Cuba through the economic blockade and through the unjust imprisonment of the Miami 5.
"This wrong is compounded by the outrageous treatment that the wives and children of these five Cubans have suffered through the denial of basic human right to visit their husbands and fathers.
Our Foreign Office ministers should make clear to Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama that the refusal of visitation rights for the wives and children of the Miami 5 for the past 11 years is a fundamental breach of human rights, contrary both to the standards for the humane treatment of prisoners and to a state's obligation to protect family life.
David (Miliband - UK foreign secretary) – help us to right this wrong!"
Unite celebrates tips victory!
Unite celebrates tips victory and welcomes new hospitality code
Unite has today welcomed the victory for hospitality staff in their campaign to prevent the sector from using tips and service charges being used to pay staff the minimum wage.
Also Unite is pleased to welcome the launch of the ‘Code of Best Practice’ on service charges, tips, gratuities and cover charges. The union was involved in the development of the principles which aim to bring transparency to the hospitality sector.
Unite has been campaigning since 2007 to have the loophole in the minimum wage regulations closed. Unite ran a high profile campaign highlighting the abhorrent practices by some rouge employers which resulted in staff having all or much of the tips left for them by customers taken by their bosses.
Tony Woodley, Unite joint general Secretary said: "Unite is proud that the government has heeded the concerns of waiting staff in their long running campaign to close the loophole in the minimum wage regulations. Consumers were outraged when the union exposed that some employers were using tips and service charges to uplift the pay of staff to the minimum wage of £5.73. The change in the regulations today will be welcomed by workers in restaurants, pubs and hotels across the country."
Derek Simpson, Unite joint general secretary said: "There is now an urgent need for the hospitality industry to be transparent in how they handle the tips and service charge money left for staff. The Code launched today will help consumers see where the money left for good service is going. Unite is looking to the sector to adhere to the best practice principles and ensure that customers have the information they need to make an informed choice before they leave a tip or service charge. Unite wants to see the all employers sign up to the Code and ensure that their staff and customers can be confident that staff are treated fairly."
Unite has the Unite Fair Tips Charter which shows the restaurants, hotels and pubs which have shown their commitment to ensuring that tips and service charges are distributed fairly among staff. Those who have signed up to the campaign display the green fair tips sticker in their window.
A large number of establishments have signed up to the Fair Tips Charter. You can view the establishments at: www.fairtips.org
The Unite Fair pay Charter states that employers pledge to:
1. Pay all employees at least the minimum wage with 100% of tips added on top as a bonus with no hidden charges.
2. Reach agreement on how tips are shared with those staff directly affected.
3. Make no deductions from tips or salaries to cover breakages, till shortages or customer walk-outs.
4. Make all rules for the distribution of tips and service charges available in writing for staff and customers on request.
Unite has today welcomed the victory for hospitality staff in their campaign to prevent the sector from using tips and service charges being used to pay staff the minimum wage.
Also Unite is pleased to welcome the launch of the ‘Code of Best Practice’ on service charges, tips, gratuities and cover charges. The union was involved in the development of the principles which aim to bring transparency to the hospitality sector.
Unite has been campaigning since 2007 to have the loophole in the minimum wage regulations closed. Unite ran a high profile campaign highlighting the abhorrent practices by some rouge employers which resulted in staff having all or much of the tips left for them by customers taken by their bosses.
Tony Woodley, Unite joint general Secretary said: "Unite is proud that the government has heeded the concerns of waiting staff in their long running campaign to close the loophole in the minimum wage regulations. Consumers were outraged when the union exposed that some employers were using tips and service charges to uplift the pay of staff to the minimum wage of £5.73. The change in the regulations today will be welcomed by workers in restaurants, pubs and hotels across the country."
Derek Simpson, Unite joint general secretary said: "There is now an urgent need for the hospitality industry to be transparent in how they handle the tips and service charge money left for staff. The Code launched today will help consumers see where the money left for good service is going. Unite is looking to the sector to adhere to the best practice principles and ensure that customers have the information they need to make an informed choice before they leave a tip or service charge. Unite wants to see the all employers sign up to the Code and ensure that their staff and customers can be confident that staff are treated fairly."
Unite has the Unite Fair Tips Charter which shows the restaurants, hotels and pubs which have shown their commitment to ensuring that tips and service charges are distributed fairly among staff. Those who have signed up to the campaign display the green fair tips sticker in their window.
A large number of establishments have signed up to the Fair Tips Charter. You can view the establishments at: www.fairtips.org
The Unite Fair pay Charter states that employers pledge to:
1. Pay all employees at least the minimum wage with 100% of tips added on top as a bonus with no hidden charges.
2. Reach agreement on how tips are shared with those staff directly affected.
3. Make no deductions from tips or salaries to cover breakages, till shortages or customer walk-outs.
4. Make all rules for the distribution of tips and service charges available in writing for staff and customers on request.
Unrest grows at First Group
Unrest grows at First Group as bus workers' rejection of zero pay deal snowballs
Two and a half thousand bus workers at First Group are set to take strike action in some of the country's biggest transport regions in mounting disputes over an imposed zero per cent pay deal. The strikes are set to go ahead as FirstGroup's national management refuses to allow local management at its 19 subsidiaries to fund a pay rise for its employees.
Unite, is warning that unless the company alters its aggressive negotiating position, these strikes could soon be followed by others across the company's largest regions, meaning that thousands of bus services will be hit simultaneously.
The union recently announced that all 833 of its members at Bury, Bolton and Wigan bus depots will take part in a further four days of strike action on Monday 5th, 12th, 19th and 26th October. Drivers have already held four 24-hour stoppages in the last few weeks, while Unite's attempts to resolve the pay deal by engaging the help of the conciliation service Acas in an attempt to break the deadlock came to nothing as FirstGroup continues to refuse to budge on fair pay.
With strike ballots at First South Yorkshire also announced on Monday, September 28th, and a third ballot in First's Essex subsidiary yesterday (Thursday) returning a 95 per cent vote in favour of industrial action, the company now faces three simultaneous disputes with future strike action likely to be co-ordinated across the three disputes. Further, balloting is at an advanced stage in First's large London and West Yorkshire subsidiaries, which are likely to join the growing rejection of the zero per cent pay policy imposed by First's main board, bringing the total number on strike to some 8,000 bus workers.
Unite is also warning the company that its strategy to force reballots is also backfiring as majorities for strike action rise massively, with, at some sites, nine out of 10 workers voting to strike.
Unite's national organiser for transport, Graham Stevenson, said: "Our members up and down the country are simply furious at First's imposed zero per cent pay freeze and will not accept it. This dispute is set to escalate massively unless First rethinks its position.
"This is a company with a record £134 million in annual profits but it refuses a fair pay rise to those who earn this for them. Other companies in the same industry are settling at around 2.5 per cent.
"Forget the ending of the bonus culture, it's alive and well in First's boardroom. At the beginning of 2009, First management confirmed a 15 per cent bonanza for shareholders for each of the last five years, funding this by slashing jobs, wages and terms and conditions. Enough is enough. Bus workers are only asking for a fraction of what the fat cat executives have given themselves so that they can support their families and keep pace with the cost of living."
Unite is further concerned that industrial relations at FirstGroup will be damaged for the long-term by the company's determination to impose the pay freeze nationally, bypassing the national forum established to resolve terms and conditions matters on the basis of mutual co-operation.
Graham Stevenson added: "This imposition of a national pay freeze places in jeopardy all national understandings between us. I appeal to First to meet us nationally and confirm that they are willing to reconsider the aggressive and hostile stance they have adopted in the last few months. Unite will place this on record. From today, the die is cast. Unite cannot and will not walk away from its thousands of members and only First can enable a peaceable outcome."
Two and a half thousand bus workers at First Group are set to take strike action in some of the country's biggest transport regions in mounting disputes over an imposed zero per cent pay deal. The strikes are set to go ahead as FirstGroup's national management refuses to allow local management at its 19 subsidiaries to fund a pay rise for its employees.
Unite, is warning that unless the company alters its aggressive negotiating position, these strikes could soon be followed by others across the company's largest regions, meaning that thousands of bus services will be hit simultaneously.
The union recently announced that all 833 of its members at Bury, Bolton and Wigan bus depots will take part in a further four days of strike action on Monday 5th, 12th, 19th and 26th October. Drivers have already held four 24-hour stoppages in the last few weeks, while Unite's attempts to resolve the pay deal by engaging the help of the conciliation service Acas in an attempt to break the deadlock came to nothing as FirstGroup continues to refuse to budge on fair pay.
With strike ballots at First South Yorkshire also announced on Monday, September 28th, and a third ballot in First's Essex subsidiary yesterday (Thursday) returning a 95 per cent vote in favour of industrial action, the company now faces three simultaneous disputes with future strike action likely to be co-ordinated across the three disputes. Further, balloting is at an advanced stage in First's large London and West Yorkshire subsidiaries, which are likely to join the growing rejection of the zero per cent pay policy imposed by First's main board, bringing the total number on strike to some 8,000 bus workers.
Unite is also warning the company that its strategy to force reballots is also backfiring as majorities for strike action rise massively, with, at some sites, nine out of 10 workers voting to strike.
Unite's national organiser for transport, Graham Stevenson, said: "Our members up and down the country are simply furious at First's imposed zero per cent pay freeze and will not accept it. This dispute is set to escalate massively unless First rethinks its position.
"This is a company with a record £134 million in annual profits but it refuses a fair pay rise to those who earn this for them. Other companies in the same industry are settling at around 2.5 per cent.
"Forget the ending of the bonus culture, it's alive and well in First's boardroom. At the beginning of 2009, First management confirmed a 15 per cent bonanza for shareholders for each of the last five years, funding this by slashing jobs, wages and terms and conditions. Enough is enough. Bus workers are only asking for a fraction of what the fat cat executives have given themselves so that they can support their families and keep pace with the cost of living."
Unite is further concerned that industrial relations at FirstGroup will be damaged for the long-term by the company's determination to impose the pay freeze nationally, bypassing the national forum established to resolve terms and conditions matters on the basis of mutual co-operation.
Graham Stevenson added: "This imposition of a national pay freeze places in jeopardy all national understandings between us. I appeal to First to meet us nationally and confirm that they are willing to reconsider the aggressive and hostile stance they have adopted in the last few months. Unite will place this on record. From today, the die is cast. Unite cannot and will not walk away from its thousands of members and only First can enable a peaceable outcome."
Murder in Colombia and a U.S. multinational
Please forward on to your Comrades.
Murder in Colombia and a U.S. multinational
From The Los Angeles Times - October 1, 2009
Did officials of Drummond Co., a U.S. coal operation, play a role in the deaths of at least two men in Colombia?
Colombia is the most dangerous place in the world to be a union organizer. In the last 17 years, more than 2,700 teachers, farmworkers, coal miners and other laborers have paid with their lives for seeking rights that Americans have long taken for granted, such as safe working conditions. During that same period, there were more than 4,000 reported death threats against labor leaders, 350 disappearances and kidnappings, and 75 cases of torture.
Under international pressure, President Alvaro Uribe has made strides in addressing the problem. In 2007, the office of the attorney general created a special unit to focus on anti-union crimes, and it is working its way through the backlog of thousands of unsolved cases. More progress has been made in the last two years than in the previous 10, which is encouraging. It is troubling, however, that when a defendant is convicted, it is generally a hit man or low-level thug and almost never the mastermind or shot-caller who ordered a labor leader's murder.
That's why it is significant that a judge in Colombia has asked the attorney general to launch a criminal investigation of top executives at Alabama-based Drummond Co., a multinational coal company. At issue is whether Drummond executives collaborated with the United Self-Defense Forces of Colombia (AUC in Spanish), a U.S.-designated terrorist organization, to murder union leaders organizing the Drummond coal mine in La Loma in 2001. Relatives of three slain men, Valmore Locarno, Victor Orcasita and Gustavo Soler, sued Drummond in Birmingham and lost -- proof, the company says, of its innocence. But new evidence has emerged: In sworn affidavits, ex-paramilitary soldiers are naming top Drummond executives as having requisitioned and paid for two of the murders. The company says those allegations are false.
On the basis of the new information, another wrongful-death suit was brought against the company in May in Birmingham.But a civil action in the United States is no substitute for a criminal investigation in Colombia. The perilous environment for workers there exists not only because of the violence they face but the historical impunity of their attackers.
U.S. and European labor leaders are watching this case closely and pointing to it as an example of why they object to the United States' proposed free-trade agreement with Colombia: If Colombian workers can't freely unionize, there's no level playing field between the countries. We continue to support ratification of the agreement. But we see this as an opportunity for Colombia to demonstrate that its judicial system can investigate low-level wiseguys and a giant multinational as well.
Copyright © 2009, The Los Angeles Times
Murder in Colombia and a U.S. multinational
From The Los Angeles Times - October 1, 2009
Did officials of Drummond Co., a U.S. coal operation, play a role in the deaths of at least two men in Colombia?
Colombia is the most dangerous place in the world to be a union organizer. In the last 17 years, more than 2,700 teachers, farmworkers, coal miners and other laborers have paid with their lives for seeking rights that Americans have long taken for granted, such as safe working conditions. During that same period, there were more than 4,000 reported death threats against labor leaders, 350 disappearances and kidnappings, and 75 cases of torture.
Under international pressure, President Alvaro Uribe has made strides in addressing the problem. In 2007, the office of the attorney general created a special unit to focus on anti-union crimes, and it is working its way through the backlog of thousands of unsolved cases. More progress has been made in the last two years than in the previous 10, which is encouraging. It is troubling, however, that when a defendant is convicted, it is generally a hit man or low-level thug and almost never the mastermind or shot-caller who ordered a labor leader's murder.
That's why it is significant that a judge in Colombia has asked the attorney general to launch a criminal investigation of top executives at Alabama-based Drummond Co., a multinational coal company. At issue is whether Drummond executives collaborated with the United Self-Defense Forces of Colombia (AUC in Spanish), a U.S.-designated terrorist organization, to murder union leaders organizing the Drummond coal mine in La Loma in 2001. Relatives of three slain men, Valmore Locarno, Victor Orcasita and Gustavo Soler, sued Drummond in Birmingham and lost -- proof, the company says, of its innocence. But new evidence has emerged: In sworn affidavits, ex-paramilitary soldiers are naming top Drummond executives as having requisitioned and paid for two of the murders. The company says those allegations are false.
On the basis of the new information, another wrongful-death suit was brought against the company in May in Birmingham.But a civil action in the United States is no substitute for a criminal investigation in Colombia. The perilous environment for workers there exists not only because of the violence they face but the historical impunity of their attackers.
U.S. and European labor leaders are watching this case closely and pointing to it as an example of why they object to the United States' proposed free-trade agreement with Colombia: If Colombian workers can't freely unionize, there's no level playing field between the countries. We continue to support ratification of the agreement. But we see this as an opportunity for Colombia to demonstrate that its judicial system can investigate low-level wiseguys and a giant multinational as well.
Copyright © 2009, The Los Angeles Times
Diageo Campaign - Keep Up The Pressure
In the past few weeks the campaign to save jobs at Johnnie Walker has received a huge boost from two of the largest trade unions in the USA, showing our campaign's message has reached beyond the UK and is really having an effect.
Now we need to ram home our message.
In a few weeks time, Diageo shareholders will be meeting for their Annual General Meeting. They certainly know about our campaign - we've already sent half a million emails to the big institutional shareholders who squeeze profits out of Diageo. But we need to keep the pressure on them. Our campaign won't let them callously cut jobs - while making a 2 billion pounds profit. We're planning a campaign to generate media coverage to contrast their massive profits with their savage job cuts in Scotland, and we need your help.
We're asking our supporters to write a short, sharp message to make the people who own Diageo see sense. We'll then put all of our supporters' messages in a giant bottle and deliver it to their door. To be part of this moment, write your message now:
http://action.unitetheunion.com/messageinabottle
It will only take you a minute or two and you'll be joining hundreds of people who have already sent their message. It's important that we do this - from day one we've known that the only way we'll save these jobs is by taking on Diageo, exposing their willingness to turn their backs on the workers who built their success. With your help we'll do this - a giant bottle full of messages to Diageo - and a great story in the press.
We'll deliver the message right to Diageo's - and the shareholders' - front door and we'll show that our campaign will not go away. We can't do this without you.
Sign Up to Support Unite members at Diageo!
Now we need to ram home our message.
In a few weeks time, Diageo shareholders will be meeting for their Annual General Meeting. They certainly know about our campaign - we've already sent half a million emails to the big institutional shareholders who squeeze profits out of Diageo. But we need to keep the pressure on them. Our campaign won't let them callously cut jobs - while making a 2 billion pounds profit. We're planning a campaign to generate media coverage to contrast their massive profits with their savage job cuts in Scotland, and we need your help.
We're asking our supporters to write a short, sharp message to make the people who own Diageo see sense. We'll then put all of our supporters' messages in a giant bottle and deliver it to their door. To be part of this moment, write your message now:
http://action.unitetheunion.com/messageinabottle
It will only take you a minute or two and you'll be joining hundreds of people who have already sent their message. It's important that we do this - from day one we've known that the only way we'll save these jobs is by taking on Diageo, exposing their willingness to turn their backs on the workers who built their success. With your help we'll do this - a giant bottle full of messages to Diageo - and a great story in the press.
We'll deliver the message right to Diageo's - and the shareholders' - front door and we'll show that our campaign will not go away. We can't do this without you.
Sign Up to Support Unite members at Diageo!
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Women Of Steel Keep Up Honduras Protest
The United Steelworkers (USW) Women of Steel organisation continues to seek action by the U.S. government to protect Honduran woman who have been brutalized by officials of the coup regime.
Last month the organization asked Secretary of State Hillary Clinton to intervene for Honduran women in the resistance who are being threatened by acts of sexual and physical violence.
The group today sent a stern reply to letter sent to them by the U.S. State Department’s Ambassador-At-Large for Global Women’s’ Issues, which downplayed the violence and ignores the findings of the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights.
In the letter they cited an August 21st, 2009 report that noted: ‘In the context of the demonstrations and the repression and detentions carried out by police officers and members of the military, women were especially subject to acts of violence and humiliation because of their gender.”
In its letter, the USW Women of Steel also calls for the restoration of democracy in Honduras and the immediate reinstatement of Manuel Zelaya to his rightful position as President.
Last month the organization asked Secretary of State Hillary Clinton to intervene for Honduran women in the resistance who are being threatened by acts of sexual and physical violence.
The group today sent a stern reply to letter sent to them by the U.S. State Department’s Ambassador-At-Large for Global Women’s’ Issues, which downplayed the violence and ignores the findings of the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights.
In the letter they cited an August 21st, 2009 report that noted: ‘In the context of the demonstrations and the repression and detentions carried out by police officers and members of the military, women were especially subject to acts of violence and humiliation because of their gender.”
In its letter, the USW Women of Steel also calls for the restoration of democracy in Honduras and the immediate reinstatement of Manuel Zelaya to his rightful position as President.
Scottish Workers Uniting Group Meeting Re-Arranged
We would like to apologise for the short notice in rescheduling
the Scottish Workers Uniting Group Meeting which was due to take place this
Saturday 03.10.2009 @ 10.30hrs.
We can assure you that our decision to reschedule was not made lightly by
the Steering Committee that you elected.
We are looking to reschedule our Meeting for a date later in the month.
This will enable our National Meeting to take place and allow a clear
direction to be cascaded across all of our Regions for clarity and unity to
all.
If you have spoken to like minded Unite members that may not have received
our original email please look to advise of reschedule and express our
sincere apology.
the Scottish Workers Uniting Group Meeting which was due to take place this
Saturday 03.10.2009 @ 10.30hrs.
We can assure you that our decision to reschedule was not made lightly by
the Steering Committee that you elected.
We are looking to reschedule our Meeting for a date later in the month.
This will enable our National Meeting to take place and allow a clear
direction to be cascaded across all of our Regions for clarity and unity to
all.
If you have spoken to like minded Unite members that may not have received
our original email please look to advise of reschedule and express our
sincere apology.
Les Bayliss Sets Out Vision His For the Left In Unite
Published this week in the Morning Star.
"What Unite needs to do is to provide activists with strong, disciplined leadership to protect workers' terms and conditions no matter which party is in power, insists assistant general secretary Les Bayliss.
As the Labour Party opens its last conference before an election that it is thought highly likely to lose, the former east London precision engineer insists that "whatever happens next year, our union members have to be protected - and we will need strong solidarity within the labour movement to face the challenges that are coming.
"Obviously, we would like Labour - a different kind of Labour - to remain in power, but we need to have a reality check and consider where we are and where we want to be," he cautions.
Bayliss asserts that "the '97 Labour government was never about socialism, but about accepting the free market and neoliberalism promoted by Thatcher and Reagan.
"So, if anyone was under the illusion, particularly after Labour dumped clause four, that this was going to be a socialist government, then they were kidding themselves.
"But the reason that they got away with it was because, as far as left progressives are concerned, we were far too busy being thankful that Labour had got elected that we didn't even try to set an agenda that was favourable to workers."
Despite the late hour, Bayliss is still not prepared to write the government off.
"Even if you take a minimal view, what the unions have got from Labour is far more than we could have ever expected under the Tories," he argues.
"And even with the short time remaining, I don't believe that a Tory government is a given.
"I tend to gauge a lot of public opinion by listening to cab drivers, and recently they have been changing their views - they may not be voting Labour, but I think it's clear that they will not be voting Tory either."
Bayliss insists that "if Labour can show that it is prepared to listen - and, more importantly, convince the electorate that they've listened, learnt and that they are going to change - then the party can still reconnect to working people.
"Because recently, what we've seen is many union members move to the right, particularly over immigration and housing issues, but at the same time come closer to the union because they can relate to our campaigning. So it's not rocket science to realise that what workers want, and what the unions want, is what will win votes."
But Bayliss suggests that should the election be lost, the unions should take it as an opportunity to "reshape Labour."
"The Tories won't come at us head on - they don't need to because there are a lot of anti-union laws still on the books. It'll be more like death by a thousand cuts with attacks on union facility time and recognition agreements, but whether people like it or not, the Labour Party will still be the only show in town, and that's where our union members will need to be to oppose the Tories' agenda."
Bayliss contends that whatever happens, workers will need "strong leadership that doesn't lead people up a blind alley because you are agreeing with them all the time. Unions need leaders who can be upfront and say things that people don't want to hear.
"I'm not interested in fighting back, because fighting back makes us sound as though we are waiting to be hit. I prefer to choose the ground that we fight on."
The unofficial construction workers' strikes that have swept Britain "shows what organised labour can do," points out Bayliss, who acted as Unite's lead negotiator in the recent talks over the industry's national agreement.
"They didn't happen overnight, they took time to organise, but the point is those strikes were about the future, about workers fighting for their industry, and they led to successful negotiations and a good deal that the shop stewards are now recommending to the members."
But Bayliss reckons that the construction workers are likely to keep on fighting.
"Although the union has succeeded in turning the argument in that dispute from 'British jobs for British workers' to enforcing union agreements, what I'm concerned about is the fact that huge construction projects are coming up and there are thousands of apprenticeships that should be getting that work but can't, because others are taking those jobs.
"The problem is that the workers don't trust the employers, so I would expect workers to respond - officially or unofficially - to employers who will inevitably break agreements.
"That means that more strikes are certain," he makes clear.
Bayliss argues that Unite's leadership of such fights proves that the union's future lies in "attracting workers in economically important industries - the skilled, professional and technical workers who historically stick with us.
"I'm not saying that we don't organise other workers, but the bosses need to know that we are serious when we take them on - that when this union fights, it is going to seriously affect the economy.
"To do that the union needs to be in the best position - we need to organise where we are strongest, consolidate that strength and achieve majority membership in the most significant industries," he insists.
"Because I don't want to get into fights that I can't win."
"What Unite needs to do is to provide activists with strong, disciplined leadership to protect workers' terms and conditions no matter which party is in power, insists assistant general secretary Les Bayliss.
As the Labour Party opens its last conference before an election that it is thought highly likely to lose, the former east London precision engineer insists that "whatever happens next year, our union members have to be protected - and we will need strong solidarity within the labour movement to face the challenges that are coming.
"Obviously, we would like Labour - a different kind of Labour - to remain in power, but we need to have a reality check and consider where we are and where we want to be," he cautions.
Bayliss asserts that "the '97 Labour government was never about socialism, but about accepting the free market and neoliberalism promoted by Thatcher and Reagan.
"So, if anyone was under the illusion, particularly after Labour dumped clause four, that this was going to be a socialist government, then they were kidding themselves.
"But the reason that they got away with it was because, as far as left progressives are concerned, we were far too busy being thankful that Labour had got elected that we didn't even try to set an agenda that was favourable to workers."
Despite the late hour, Bayliss is still not prepared to write the government off.
"Even if you take a minimal view, what the unions have got from Labour is far more than we could have ever expected under the Tories," he argues.
"And even with the short time remaining, I don't believe that a Tory government is a given.
"I tend to gauge a lot of public opinion by listening to cab drivers, and recently they have been changing their views - they may not be voting Labour, but I think it's clear that they will not be voting Tory either."
Bayliss insists that "if Labour can show that it is prepared to listen - and, more importantly, convince the electorate that they've listened, learnt and that they are going to change - then the party can still reconnect to working people.
"Because recently, what we've seen is many union members move to the right, particularly over immigration and housing issues, but at the same time come closer to the union because they can relate to our campaigning. So it's not rocket science to realise that what workers want, and what the unions want, is what will win votes."
But Bayliss suggests that should the election be lost, the unions should take it as an opportunity to "reshape Labour."
"The Tories won't come at us head on - they don't need to because there are a lot of anti-union laws still on the books. It'll be more like death by a thousand cuts with attacks on union facility time and recognition agreements, but whether people like it or not, the Labour Party will still be the only show in town, and that's where our union members will need to be to oppose the Tories' agenda."
Bayliss contends that whatever happens, workers will need "strong leadership that doesn't lead people up a blind alley because you are agreeing with them all the time. Unions need leaders who can be upfront and say things that people don't want to hear.
"I'm not interested in fighting back, because fighting back makes us sound as though we are waiting to be hit. I prefer to choose the ground that we fight on."
The unofficial construction workers' strikes that have swept Britain "shows what organised labour can do," points out Bayliss, who acted as Unite's lead negotiator in the recent talks over the industry's national agreement.
"They didn't happen overnight, they took time to organise, but the point is those strikes were about the future, about workers fighting for their industry, and they led to successful negotiations and a good deal that the shop stewards are now recommending to the members."
But Bayliss reckons that the construction workers are likely to keep on fighting.
"Although the union has succeeded in turning the argument in that dispute from 'British jobs for British workers' to enforcing union agreements, what I'm concerned about is the fact that huge construction projects are coming up and there are thousands of apprenticeships that should be getting that work but can't, because others are taking those jobs.
"The problem is that the workers don't trust the employers, so I would expect workers to respond - officially or unofficially - to employers who will inevitably break agreements.
"That means that more strikes are certain," he makes clear.
Bayliss argues that Unite's leadership of such fights proves that the union's future lies in "attracting workers in economically important industries - the skilled, professional and technical workers who historically stick with us.
"I'm not saying that we don't organise other workers, but the bosses need to know that we are serious when we take them on - that when this union fights, it is going to seriously affect the economy.
"To do that the union needs to be in the best position - we need to organise where we are strongest, consolidate that strength and achieve majority membership in the most significant industries," he insists.
"Because I don't want to get into fights that I can't win."
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