Now -read the book!

Here is a link to my memoirs which, if you are a glutton for punishment, you can purchase online at https://www.kobo.com/gb/en/ebook/an-obscure-footnote-in-trade-union-history.
Men fight and lose the battle, and the thing that they fought for comes about in spite of their defeat, and when it comes turns out not to be what they meant, and other men have to fight for what they meant under another name. (William Morris - A Dream of John Ball)

Wednesday, January 03, 2007

And they're off....

Well, it’s that biennial time again folks. The UNISON National Executive Council (NEC) elections are coming – details are online here. I shall refrain from any detailed comment whilst posting from a UNISON computer (because UNISON resources must not be used to campaign for or against any candidate in an internal UNISON election) (and that includes the resources in Regional Officers and held by paid officials…)

What I will say, in my official capacity as a current member of the NEC is that I hope that we can increase the turn out and participation in the elections.

Members can update their details online or call 0845 355 0845 to check that the union has the right address for despatch of ballot papers. Worth doing if you have moved house recently!

Branches and other nominating bodies no longer need to submit signed forms from the prospective candidates whom they are nominating, as separate forms have been developed for prospective candidates themselves to submit.

Under UNISON’s Rules, the NEC has great power to run our Union – it matters who is elected to it and what they then do. So – if you are a UNISON member - then make sure you use your vote and – if you are not a UNISON member – join.

1 comment:

a very public sociologist said...

A most diplomatic post Jon ;)

For non-unionised public sector workers or non-active Unison members I would urge you to get involved. This past year I've seen the baleful effects first hand of a Unison rep (backed by regional people) on the campaign against NHS cuts. All because there is no culture of union accountability in that particular workplace.

A membership that holds its officials to account is an effective union.