Labour national policy forum agrees way ahead
(28/07/08) UNISON general secretary Dave Prentis has welcomed agreements reached on key issues, such as public services, equalities and workforce protections, at the Labour party national policy forum in Warwick.Unions, constituency parties and ministers spent the weekend in joint discussions to move the union's agenda forward.Mr Prentis said: "We have moved forward on a package that covers a wide range of areas that the British electorate wants to see addressed."These include health and the public services, equal pay and equalities, tackling poverty, improving skills training and fairness at work."It provides a sound basis for rebuilding support for Labour's core values."Importantly for us, it affirms the central role of the public sector in delivering public services. It makes clear that direct provision should be the preferred option - and that privatisation is not the way ahead. It supports public service workers in the essential jobs they do in our communities - workers who I am proud to represent."On public services, the agreement states: "Excellent public services lie at the heart of any civilised society, essential to delivering fairness and opportunity for all. Investment in public services also supports our future economic development and can also play an essential role in regenerating local economies and maintaining stable growth and high levels of employments."
It opposes any attempts to create a single EU market for healthcare which could undermine the NHS.
It commits to maintaining and developing a central role for public provision and a directly employed workforce.
Central to improvement are public service staff - two-tier workforce protections will be strengthened.
Councils will be supported to implement terms and conditions consistent with the principles of equal pay for work of equal value.
All hospitals are to give full consideration to in-house options for cleaning contracts - to develop critical public sector capacity.
Skills training will be improved - skills sector forums will look at setting minimum standards for social care workers.
Term-time only contracts will be tackled.
Monday, July 28, 2008
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Union to enter talks with local govt employers
(23/07/08) UNISON’s local government National Joint Committee (NJC) has today voted unanimously to back further talks with Local Government Employers, aimed at settling the current dispute over pay. Discussions between UNISON, Unite and the Local Government Employers led to an understanding that talks can go ahead, with a timetable to be agreed at a later date. In the light of this decision the NJC agreed not to name a date for further strike action. Progress will be monitored over the coming weeks and the decision reviewed in September.Last week, 500,000 council workers took part in a 48-hour strike over a 2.45% below-inflation pay offer. UNISON general secretary Dave Prentis said: “Local government workers responded magnificently to the call for action last week. They contribute a huge amount to the local communities they serve and deserve to be treated with dignity and respect. “Taking action was a tough decision for our members who are dedicated to serving the communities they live and work in, but their strong resolve has paid dividends.”UNISON head of local government Heather Wakefield added: “It is vital that we get this dispute sorted as soon as possible. Our members cannot afford to be the poor relations of the public sector. If the employers are serious about making local government an employer of choice they must realise they have some catching up to do.“Over the summer we will continue our campaign to win the hearts and minds of government, the employers, and the public to the justice of our case.”
(23/07/08) UNISON’s local government National Joint Committee (NJC) has today voted unanimously to back further talks with Local Government Employers, aimed at settling the current dispute over pay. Discussions between UNISON, Unite and the Local Government Employers led to an understanding that talks can go ahead, with a timetable to be agreed at a later date. In the light of this decision the NJC agreed not to name a date for further strike action. Progress will be monitored over the coming weeks and the decision reviewed in September.Last week, 500,000 council workers took part in a 48-hour strike over a 2.45% below-inflation pay offer. UNISON general secretary Dave Prentis said: “Local government workers responded magnificently to the call for action last week. They contribute a huge amount to the local communities they serve and deserve to be treated with dignity and respect. “Taking action was a tough decision for our members who are dedicated to serving the communities they live and work in, but their strong resolve has paid dividends.”UNISON head of local government Heather Wakefield added: “It is vital that we get this dispute sorted as soon as possible. Our members cannot afford to be the poor relations of the public sector. If the employers are serious about making local government an employer of choice they must realise they have some catching up to do.“Over the summer we will continue our campaign to win the hearts and minds of government, the employers, and the public to the justice of our case.”
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
TUC sends message of support to striking
local government workers
As hundreds of thousands of local government workers prepare to go on a two-day strike today (Wednesday) over pay, TUC General Secretary Brendan Barber has sent the council employees a message of support, saying:
'Council workers across the UK will be on strike in protest at the inadequate pay offer made to them by the local authority employers. They are understandably angry at the gap that has opened up between their 2.45 per cent pay offer and the rising cost of living.
'With prices constantly on the up, local government workers are being asked to accept a real terms pay cut by their employers as family budgets are being stretched to the limit. I urge the local government employers to return to the negotiating table and reach a fair and just settlement of this dispute.'
local government workers
As hundreds of thousands of local government workers prepare to go on a two-day strike today (Wednesday) over pay, TUC General Secretary Brendan Barber has sent the council employees a message of support, saying:
'Council workers across the UK will be on strike in protest at the inadequate pay offer made to them by the local authority employers. They are understandably angry at the gap that has opened up between their 2.45 per cent pay offer and the rising cost of living.
'With prices constantly on the up, local government workers are being asked to accept a real terms pay cut by their employers as family budgets are being stretched to the limit. I urge the local government employers to return to the negotiating table and reach a fair and just settlement of this dispute.'
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
A message loud and clear
(14/07/08) As UNISON members in local government count down to strike action this week, general secretary Dave Prentis unveiled the new campaigning banners at the union's headquarters in London.The banners display a message that couldn't be any clearer – our members are taking action for fairness.And, calling for the local government employers to return to meaningful negotiations, Mr Prentis said: "I'm proud to be supporting our members who are taking action to win a fair deal."Striking is never an easy option and not something that we do lightly."We urge the employers to sit down with us and discuss a fair and equitable solution."Messages of support for members in England, Wales and Northern Ireland are flowing in from around the UK – and further afield – as trade unionists and members of the public offer their solidarity and show that they know the fairness of the cause.
Read messages of support and add your own
What can I do?
(14/07/08) As UNISON members in local government count down to strike action this week, general secretary Dave Prentis unveiled the new campaigning banners at the union's headquarters in London.The banners display a message that couldn't be any clearer – our members are taking action for fairness.And, calling for the local government employers to return to meaningful negotiations, Mr Prentis said: "I'm proud to be supporting our members who are taking action to win a fair deal."Striking is never an easy option and not something that we do lightly."We urge the employers to sit down with us and discuss a fair and equitable solution."Messages of support for members in England, Wales and Northern Ireland are flowing in from around the UK – and further afield – as trade unionists and members of the public offer their solidarity and show that they know the fairness of the cause.
Read messages of support and add your own
What can I do?
Friday, July 11, 2008
'Talk to us' employers urged
(10/07/08) UNISON took the fair pay message direct to council employers today, urging them to reopen pay talks to head off next week's strike.Some 600,000 UNISON members working for local authorities in England, Northern Ireland and Wales are preparing to walk out on 16 and 17 July over this year's below-inflation pay offer.With less than a week to go before the action, Heather Wakefield, the union's head of local government, stressed: "We want the Local Government Association to get back into negotiations."Today saw three giant billboards demanding fair pay for council workers delivered to the Local Government Association.Hundreds of supporters, including MPs and Glastonbury festival-goers. have signed the billboards, which bear the slogan "2.45% - it's a shame".Ms Wakefield added: "Our members have families and the employers must realise that they cannot ride out another winter of choosing between basics such as putting food on their tables or paying their energy bills."
(10/07/08) UNISON took the fair pay message direct to council employers today, urging them to reopen pay talks to head off next week's strike.Some 600,000 UNISON members working for local authorities in England, Northern Ireland and Wales are preparing to walk out on 16 and 17 July over this year's below-inflation pay offer.With less than a week to go before the action, Heather Wakefield, the union's head of local government, stressed: "We want the Local Government Association to get back into negotiations."Today saw three giant billboards demanding fair pay for council workers delivered to the Local Government Association.Hundreds of supporters, including MPs and Glastonbury festival-goers. have signed the billboards, which bear the slogan "2.45% - it's a shame".Ms Wakefield added: "Our members have families and the employers must realise that they cannot ride out another winter of choosing between basics such as putting food on their tables or paying their energy bills."
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Letter from Dave Prentis
Dear colleague
Branches and members will have by now received the results of the ballot
over the NJC pay offer. As a result of the ‘yes’ vote, the Industrial Action
Committee has given the ‘go ahead’ for all-out strike action on 16 and
17 July.
Taking strike action is never an easy decision for members or for the union.
We prefer to do what we do best – provide quality services for the public.
But having won a ‘yes’ vote for action, it is now up to the union at all
levels to deliver on that action and make the employers come back to the
negotiating table.
And that means all of us. We need stewards and reps who are in daily
contact with members to get the maximum possible turnout. Members
facing the expense of summer holidays and new school uniforms might
wonder whether losing pay in a strike is worth it. We have to convince them
that it’s the strength of turn-out which will make the strike successful.
A large turn-out will send a clear message to the employers that they must
improve their offer and show members the respect they deserve.
UNISON will be putting all its resources into making sure that our members
on NJC pay and conditions – the worst pay and conditions in the public
sector - make this action a huge success and get the employers back to the
negotiating table.
Please support your union – together we can make a difference.
Best wishes
Dave Prentis
General Secretary.
Dear colleague
Branches and members will have by now received the results of the ballot
over the NJC pay offer. As a result of the ‘yes’ vote, the Industrial Action
Committee has given the ‘go ahead’ for all-out strike action on 16 and
17 July.
Taking strike action is never an easy decision for members or for the union.
We prefer to do what we do best – provide quality services for the public.
But having won a ‘yes’ vote for action, it is now up to the union at all
levels to deliver on that action and make the employers come back to the
negotiating table.
And that means all of us. We need stewards and reps who are in daily
contact with members to get the maximum possible turnout. Members
facing the expense of summer holidays and new school uniforms might
wonder whether losing pay in a strike is worth it. We have to convince them
that it’s the strength of turn-out which will make the strike successful.
A large turn-out will send a clear message to the employers that they must
improve their offer and show members the respect they deserve.
UNISON will be putting all its resources into making sure that our members
on NJC pay and conditions – the worst pay and conditions in the public
sector - make this action a huge success and get the employers back to the
negotiating table.
Please support your union – together we can make a difference.
Best wishes
Dave Prentis
General Secretary.
Wednesday, July 09, 2008
Private markets expose public services
(09/07/08) Public services are being exposed to the economic downturn and destructive market forces because of an increasing reliance on a private "public service industry", UNISON warned today.More than £70bn of taxpayer’s money now goes to the private sector and to private equity firms who increasingly own public services and the union is calling for an independent review into the impact of market forces on services.The warning comes ahead of the publication of a report on the "public services industry" commissioned by John Hutton at the Department for Business, which is examining ways of "increasing the role of the private and third sectors" in public-service delivery.General secretary Dave Prentis said: "We need a genuinely independent review of the public services industry – one that asks whether its increasing role and influence is really in the interests of taxpayers and public service users – rather than simply asking multinational companies what would make their lives easier. "
(09/07/08) Public services are being exposed to the economic downturn and destructive market forces because of an increasing reliance on a private "public service industry", UNISON warned today.More than £70bn of taxpayer’s money now goes to the private sector and to private equity firms who increasingly own public services and the union is calling for an independent review into the impact of market forces on services.The warning comes ahead of the publication of a report on the "public services industry" commissioned by John Hutton at the Department for Business, which is examining ways of "increasing the role of the private and third sectors" in public-service delivery.General secretary Dave Prentis said: "We need a genuinely independent review of the public services industry – one that asks whether its increasing role and influence is really in the interests of taxpayers and public service users – rather than simply asking multinational companies what would make their lives easier. "
Tuesday, July 08, 2008
Look at PFI's impact on pay, says UNISON
(08/07/08) The government’' review of PFI projects needs to look at their effect in public-service workers' pay and conditions, says UNISON.The union raised the issue at a top-level conference on the private finance initiative yesterday, and today welcomed officials' responses on the issue.UNISON participants at the National Audit Office’s annual private finance conference argued that the planned review of current PFI projects needs to look at whether they have harmed public sector pay and conditions.And they were please when the head of the Treasury's PFI unit Gordon McKechnie responded: "We would be very happy to consult with you on that. Value for money should not be achieved at the expense of the workforce."He was backed by Edward Leigh MP, chairman of the House of Commons public accounts committee, who said he would ask government auditors to look at the issue.UNISON policy officer Margie Jaffe welcomed the comments, saying: "UNISON wants to hold the government to account for the two tier workforce. "It is government policy to protect the terms and conditions of the workforce when services are contracted out, but too many staff are either not covered by an agreement or find it is not enforced. "This commitment to find out what is happening is overdue and just shows that we need to keep the pressure up. Nationally and locally UNISON will continue to campaign to protect or member's jobs, pay and conditions and to end the two tier workforce."
(08/07/08) The government’' review of PFI projects needs to look at their effect in public-service workers' pay and conditions, says UNISON.The union raised the issue at a top-level conference on the private finance initiative yesterday, and today welcomed officials' responses on the issue.UNISON participants at the National Audit Office’s annual private finance conference argued that the planned review of current PFI projects needs to look at whether they have harmed public sector pay and conditions.And they were please when the head of the Treasury's PFI unit Gordon McKechnie responded: "We would be very happy to consult with you on that. Value for money should not be achieved at the expense of the workforce."He was backed by Edward Leigh MP, chairman of the House of Commons public accounts committee, who said he would ask government auditors to look at the issue.UNISON policy officer Margie Jaffe welcomed the comments, saying: "UNISON wants to hold the government to account for the two tier workforce. "It is government policy to protect the terms and conditions of the workforce when services are contracted out, but too many staff are either not covered by an agreement or find it is not enforced. "This commitment to find out what is happening is overdue and just shows that we need to keep the pressure up. Nationally and locally UNISON will continue to campaign to protect or member's jobs, pay and conditions and to end the two tier workforce."
Thursday, July 03, 2008
TUC welcome for affordable housing move
Welcoming the affordable housing measures announced today (Wednesday) by Housing Minister Caroline Flint, TUC General Secretary Brendan Barber said:
'House prices may be falling, but the cost of buying even the smallest flats and houses is way beyond the means of most first-time buyers, even if they are lucky enough to secure a mortgage.
'More affordable, good quality housing in all parts of the country is urgently needed if people are to be housed near their places of work, avoiding the stresses and environmental damage caused by excessive commutes to work.
'The TUC's recent housing report called for more money for housing associations and other social housing providers to help them make up the shortfall in the number of new homes coming onto the market. Of course there is still a lot more to do, but today's announcement is a welcome step forward.'
Welcoming the affordable housing measures announced today (Wednesday) by Housing Minister Caroline Flint, TUC General Secretary Brendan Barber said:
'House prices may be falling, but the cost of buying even the smallest flats and houses is way beyond the means of most first-time buyers, even if they are lucky enough to secure a mortgage.
'More affordable, good quality housing in all parts of the country is urgently needed if people are to be housed near their places of work, avoiding the stresses and environmental damage caused by excessive commutes to work.
'The TUC's recent housing report called for more money for housing associations and other social housing providers to help them make up the shortfall in the number of new homes coming onto the market. Of course there is still a lot more to do, but today's announcement is a welcome step forward.'
US public service union sends support
(03/07/13) UNISON local government members preparing to strike received their first international message of support today, as the US Service Employees International Union pledged its solidarity in the "fight for fair treatment".And the message stressed the importance of public services to our communities.The union's international president, Andrew L Stern, said that: "The 2 million members of the Service Employees International Union stand in solidarity with UNISON members across the United Kingdom in their struggle for decent wages."In refusing to pay workers wages that keep up with the rate of inflation, the local government employers' association is failing to respect the crucial work that public sector workers do in schools, streets, and homes across the UK."And he continued: "As one of the largest unions of public employees in the United States, we know firsthand why investing in public services is so important to both public workers and to everyone who benefits from their hard work."Decent wages are crucial to attracting and retaining qualified staff to take care of vital functions like teaching our children and keeping our streets clean. "We stand with you on July 16, 17 – and every other day of the year in your fight for fair treatment."
(03/07/13) UNISON local government members preparing to strike received their first international message of support today, as the US Service Employees International Union pledged its solidarity in the "fight for fair treatment".And the message stressed the importance of public services to our communities.The union's international president, Andrew L Stern, said that: "The 2 million members of the Service Employees International Union stand in solidarity with UNISON members across the United Kingdom in their struggle for decent wages."In refusing to pay workers wages that keep up with the rate of inflation, the local government employers' association is failing to respect the crucial work that public sector workers do in schools, streets, and homes across the UK."And he continued: "As one of the largest unions of public employees in the United States, we know firsthand why investing in public services is so important to both public workers and to everyone who benefits from their hard work."Decent wages are crucial to attracting and retaining qualified staff to take care of vital functions like teaching our children and keeping our streets clean. "We stand with you on July 16, 17 – and every other day of the year in your fight for fair treatment."
Wednesday, July 02, 2008
Members lobby employers' conference
Heather Wakefield joins members outside the LGA conference to tell the employers that their offer is worth peanuts.(02/07/08) UNISON members working in local government today lobbied delegates at the Local Government Association conference in Bournemouth.In the latest stage of the dispute over pay, conference delegates were given peanuts and bananas to show how little the 2.45% pay offer means.Council workers across England, Wales and Northern Ireland will stage a 48-hour walkout on 16 and 17 July over their below-inflation pay offer.They include homecare and care home workers, refuse collectors, teaching assistants, librarians, social workers and environmental health officers.Despite the imminent strike, the three-day employers' conference did not include pay on the agenda.UNISON's head of local government, Heather Wakefield, said: "With a two-day strike around the corner, it is unbelievable that local government employers are sticking their heads in the sand and are not discussing pay at their conference."Our members would be in big trouble if they did the same every time another final demand dropped onto their doormat."Even bananas went up in price today," she continued. "With the cost of basic essentials going up weekly, our members cannot afford to take another pay hit."We have made it clear that we are willing to talk, but the ball is in the employers' court."
Heather Wakefield joins members outside the LGA conference to tell the employers that their offer is worth peanuts.(02/07/08) UNISON members working in local government today lobbied delegates at the Local Government Association conference in Bournemouth.In the latest stage of the dispute over pay, conference delegates were given peanuts and bananas to show how little the 2.45% pay offer means.Council workers across England, Wales and Northern Ireland will stage a 48-hour walkout on 16 and 17 July over their below-inflation pay offer.They include homecare and care home workers, refuse collectors, teaching assistants, librarians, social workers and environmental health officers.Despite the imminent strike, the three-day employers' conference did not include pay on the agenda.UNISON's head of local government, Heather Wakefield, said: "With a two-day strike around the corner, it is unbelievable that local government employers are sticking their heads in the sand and are not discussing pay at their conference."Our members would be in big trouble if they did the same every time another final demand dropped onto their doormat."Even bananas went up in price today," she continued. "With the cost of basic essentials going up weekly, our members cannot afford to take another pay hit."We have made it clear that we are willing to talk, but the ball is in the employers' court."
My 'council', what about 'my pay'
(02/07/08) UNISON today attacked the Local Government Association (LGA) for launching a 'My council' public relations exercise, as 600,000 local government workers prepare to take strike action.The LGA is using its annual conference in Bournemouth to trail a series of posters telling people about the many services provided by councils.UNISON general secretary Dave Prentis, said: "The LGA poster campaign shows just how difficult working for the council can be. What it doesn’t tell you is just how little those people get paid for doing jobs that most people would run a mile from."These are the very people who are being asked to take a pay cut. These are the people who will be out on strike on 16 and 17 July."The LGA is happy to boast about what excellent value for money council services provide, but they won’t share those £16bn efficiency savings with the people who made them - council workers."It’s time for the employers to tear themselves away from publicity seeking and concentrate on settling the current pay dispute so that council workers can continue keeping the streets clean and people safe.UNISON members also leafleted local government leaders attending the LGA conference, calling on them to come back to the table to negotiate a fair deal on pay.
(02/07/08) UNISON today attacked the Local Government Association (LGA) for launching a 'My council' public relations exercise, as 600,000 local government workers prepare to take strike action.The LGA is using its annual conference in Bournemouth to trail a series of posters telling people about the many services provided by councils.UNISON general secretary Dave Prentis, said: "The LGA poster campaign shows just how difficult working for the council can be. What it doesn’t tell you is just how little those people get paid for doing jobs that most people would run a mile from."These are the very people who are being asked to take a pay cut. These are the people who will be out on strike on 16 and 17 July."The LGA is happy to boast about what excellent value for money council services provide, but they won’t share those £16bn efficiency savings with the people who made them - council workers."It’s time for the employers to tear themselves away from publicity seeking and concentrate on settling the current pay dispute so that council workers can continue keeping the streets clean and people safe.UNISON members also leafleted local government leaders attending the LGA conference, calling on them to come back to the table to negotiate a fair deal on pay.
Saturday, June 28, 2008
Council strikes confirmed
(27/06/08) UNISON’s industrial action committee has today confirmed that local government strike action will go ahead on 16 and 17 July in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. "Throughout the union and across the country our members working in local government have given sustained strike action the green light," said UNISON general secretary Dave Prentis.The action affects 600,000 of the union’s local government members, including social workers, librarians, school meals workers, refuse collectors, surveyors and teaching assistants.They will walk out to protest this year’s below-inflation pay offer of 2.45%. "This decision has not been taken lightly, but years of pay cuts and recent hikes in fuel, food and housing costs has left them with little choice," Mr Prentis continued."The employers must realise that we mean business. They must also understand they can resolve this dispute by coming up with a decent offer. Our members are loyal public service workers and our case for fair pay is strong."The government’s Office of National Statistics’ own figures show that Retail Price Index inflation reached 4.3% in May. In the same month, the CPI measure of inflation, which the government uses to set its inflation target, hit 3.3%
Local government workers in Scotland are being balloted in July on taking strike action after rejecting a three-year offer worth 2.5% in each year.
(27/06/08) UNISON’s industrial action committee has today confirmed that local government strike action will go ahead on 16 and 17 July in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. "Throughout the union and across the country our members working in local government have given sustained strike action the green light," said UNISON general secretary Dave Prentis.The action affects 600,000 of the union’s local government members, including social workers, librarians, school meals workers, refuse collectors, surveyors and teaching assistants.They will walk out to protest this year’s below-inflation pay offer of 2.45%. "This decision has not been taken lightly, but years of pay cuts and recent hikes in fuel, food and housing costs has left them with little choice," Mr Prentis continued."The employers must realise that we mean business. They must also understand they can resolve this dispute by coming up with a decent offer. Our members are loyal public service workers and our case for fair pay is strong."The government’s Office of National Statistics’ own figures show that Retail Price Index inflation reached 4.3% in May. In the same month, the CPI measure of inflation, which the government uses to set its inflation target, hit 3.3%
Local government workers in Scotland are being balloted in July on taking strike action after rejecting a three-year offer worth 2.5% in each year.
Council strikes confirmed
(27/06/08) UNISON’s industrial action committee has today confirmed that local government strike action will go ahead on 16 and 17 July in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. "Throughout the union and across the country our members working in local government have given sustained strike action the green light," said UNISON general secretary Dave Prentis.The action affects 600,000 of the union’s local government members, including social workers, librarians, school meals workers, refuse collectors, surveyors and teaching assistants.They will walk out to protest this year’s below-inflation pay offer of 2.45%. "This decision has not been taken lightly, but years of pay cuts and recent hikes in fuel, food and housing costs has left them with little choice," Mr Prentis continued."The employers must realise that we mean business. They must also understand they can resolve this dispute by coming up with a decent offer. Our members are loyal public service workers and our case for fair pay is strong."The government’s Office of National Statistics’ own figures show that Retail Price Index inflation reached 4.3% in May. In the same month, the CPI measure of inflation, which the government uses to set its inflation target, hit 3.3%
Local government workers in Scotland are being balloted in July on taking strike action after rejecting a three-year offer worth 2.5% in each year.
(27/06/08) UNISON’s industrial action committee has today confirmed that local government strike action will go ahead on 16 and 17 July in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. "Throughout the union and across the country our members working in local government have given sustained strike action the green light," said UNISON general secretary Dave Prentis.The action affects 600,000 of the union’s local government members, including social workers, librarians, school meals workers, refuse collectors, surveyors and teaching assistants.They will walk out to protest this year’s below-inflation pay offer of 2.45%. "This decision has not been taken lightly, but years of pay cuts and recent hikes in fuel, food and housing costs has left them with little choice," Mr Prentis continued."The employers must realise that we mean business. They must also understand they can resolve this dispute by coming up with a decent offer. Our members are loyal public service workers and our case for fair pay is strong."The government’s Office of National Statistics’ own figures show that Retail Price Index inflation reached 4.3% in May. In the same month, the CPI measure of inflation, which the government uses to set its inflation target, hit 3.3%
Local government workers in Scotland are being balloted in July on taking strike action after rejecting a three-year offer worth 2.5% in each year.
Thursday, June 26, 2008
Local government workers seek 48-hour strike
UNISON local government negotiators for England, Wales and Northern Ireland are seeking authorisation to start the “sustained strike action” over the below-inflation pay offer of 2.45% with a 48-hour strike in mid July.The union’s industrial action committee meets on Friday 27 June to make the decision over strike action – and negotiators on the union’s National Joint Council committee are recommending that 600,000 local government workers kick off the action by striking on 16 and 17 July. “It is a tough decision to take strike action but our members have shown that they are willing to fight for a fair deal,” said UNISON head of local government Heather Wakefield. “Once the dates are finally agreed we will be going all out to mobilise maximum support around those strike days.”Members voted 55% to 45% in favour of a programme of sustained strike in a ballot whose result was announced yesterday. That vote was in reaction to a ‘final offer’ from local government employers of a 2.45% pay rise. The government’s Office of National Statistics’ own figures show that Retail Price Index inflation reached 4.3% in May. In the same month, the CPI measure of inflation, which the government uses to set its inflation target, hit 3.3%“We are of course always willing to meet the employers,” said Ms Wakefield. “The solution to this is in their hands.” But she also warned the employers that the union will mobilise its members for strike action, saying “they must know that we mean business and they must know that our members cannot afford to take another pay cut this year.”
Local government workers in Scotland are being balloted in July on taking strike action after rejecting a three-year offer worth 2.5% in each year.
UNISON local government negotiators for England, Wales and Northern Ireland are seeking authorisation to start the “sustained strike action” over the below-inflation pay offer of 2.45% with a 48-hour strike in mid July.The union’s industrial action committee meets on Friday 27 June to make the decision over strike action – and negotiators on the union’s National Joint Council committee are recommending that 600,000 local government workers kick off the action by striking on 16 and 17 July. “It is a tough decision to take strike action but our members have shown that they are willing to fight for a fair deal,” said UNISON head of local government Heather Wakefield. “Once the dates are finally agreed we will be going all out to mobilise maximum support around those strike days.”Members voted 55% to 45% in favour of a programme of sustained strike in a ballot whose result was announced yesterday. That vote was in reaction to a ‘final offer’ from local government employers of a 2.45% pay rise. The government’s Office of National Statistics’ own figures show that Retail Price Index inflation reached 4.3% in May. In the same month, the CPI measure of inflation, which the government uses to set its inflation target, hit 3.3%“We are of course always willing to meet the employers,” said Ms Wakefield. “The solution to this is in their hands.” But she also warned the employers that the union will mobilise its members for strike action, saying “they must know that we mean business and they must know that our members cannot afford to take another pay cut this year.”
Local government workers in Scotland are being balloted in July on taking strike action after rejecting a three-year offer worth 2.5% in each year.
Local government workers seek 48-hour strike
UNISON local government negotiators for England, Wales and Northern Ireland are seeking authorisation to start the “sustained strike action” over the below-inflation pay offer of 2.45% with a 48-hour strike in mid July.The union’s industrial action committee meets on Friday 27 June to make the decision over strike action – and negotiators on the union’s National Joint Council committee are recommending that 600,000 local government workers kick off the action by striking on 16 and 17 July. “It is a tough decision to take strike action but our members have shown that they are willing to fight for a fair deal,” said UNISON head of local government Heather Wakefield. “Once the dates are finally agreed we will be going all out to mobilise maximum support around those strike days.”Members voted 55% to 45% in favour of a programme of sustained strike in a ballot whose result was announced yesterday. That vote was in reaction to a ‘final offer’ from local government employers of a 2.45% pay rise. The government’s Office of National Statistics’ own figures show that Retail Price Index inflation reached 4.3% in May. In the same month, the CPI measure of inflation, which the government uses to set its inflation target, hit 3.3%“We are of course always willing to meet the employers,” said Ms Wakefield. “The solution to this is in their hands.” But she also warned the employers that the union will mobilise its members for strike action, saying “they must know that we mean business and they must know that our members cannot afford to take another pay cut this year.”
Local government workers in Scotland are being balloted in July on taking strike action after rejecting a three-year offer worth 2.5% in each year.
UNISON local government negotiators for England, Wales and Northern Ireland are seeking authorisation to start the “sustained strike action” over the below-inflation pay offer of 2.45% with a 48-hour strike in mid July.The union’s industrial action committee meets on Friday 27 June to make the decision over strike action – and negotiators on the union’s National Joint Council committee are recommending that 600,000 local government workers kick off the action by striking on 16 and 17 July. “It is a tough decision to take strike action but our members have shown that they are willing to fight for a fair deal,” said UNISON head of local government Heather Wakefield. “Once the dates are finally agreed we will be going all out to mobilise maximum support around those strike days.”Members voted 55% to 45% in favour of a programme of sustained strike in a ballot whose result was announced yesterday. That vote was in reaction to a ‘final offer’ from local government employers of a 2.45% pay rise. The government’s Office of National Statistics’ own figures show that Retail Price Index inflation reached 4.3% in May. In the same month, the CPI measure of inflation, which the government uses to set its inflation target, hit 3.3%“We are of course always willing to meet the employers,” said Ms Wakefield. “The solution to this is in their hands.” But she also warned the employers that the union will mobilise its members for strike action, saying “they must know that we mean business and they must know that our members cannot afford to take another pay cut this year.”
Local government workers in Scotland are being balloted in July on taking strike action after rejecting a three-year offer worth 2.5% in each year.
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Local government members vote for action
(23/06/08) UNISON members in local government in England, Wales and Northern Ireland have voted by 55% to 45% for a programme of sustained strike action over a 2.45% pay offer.The union’s negotiating team, the National Joint Council committee, will now meet tomorrow to decide what action to recommend to the union's industrial action committee that meets on Friday 27 June.Commenting on the ballot result, general secretary Dave Prentis said: "This is a solid vote for action and a clear message to the local government employers that our members are willing to fight for a decent pay rise."They are fed up and angry that they are expected to accept pay cut after pay cut, while bread and butter prices go through the roof. "Most of them are low paid workers, who are hit hardest by food and fuel price hikes and they see the unfairness of boardroom bonanzas and big city bonuses"Other local government workers who have to use their cars for work are being hit hard too by spiralling fuel costs and they end up subsidising their employers." UNISON head of local government Heather Wakefield added: "The employers should be in no doubt: the members have voted for a programme of sustained and escalating strike action because they are sick of being treated as the poor relations of the public sector."Their case for a realistic pay increase is indisputable. We are, of course, willing to meet with the employers at any time, but we will decide tomorrow what recommendations to make to our national strike committee."Nearly 600,000 UNISON members were balloted on industrial action; including social workers, housing benefit workers, rent collectors refuse workers, school meals staff, teaching assistants, cooks, cleaners, architects and surveyors.Almost 250,000 of those balloted earn less than £6.50 an hour and 75% of them are women.The joint unions' pay claim was for 6% or 50p an hour whichever was the greater.In Scotland, the union will ballot more than 100,000 UNISON members in July for industrial action, after they rejected a three-year offer worth 2.5% per year.UNISON also announced a lobby of the Scottish employers' organisation, CoSLA, on Wednesday 25 June."Despite public statements from CoSLA that they are still in negotiation, the employers have recently cancelled a negotiating meeting scheduled for Wednesday," noted UNISON Scotgland regional organiser Dougie Black."We have decided that our negotiators, and a representative number of our low paid members, will keep the appointment nevertheless to make the point to CoSLA that their offer is unacceptable."They will be carrying the princely sum of 46p – the total that our lowest paid members can expect their hourly rate to increase if they accepted the employers' offer."
(23/06/08) UNISON members in local government in England, Wales and Northern Ireland have voted by 55% to 45% for a programme of sustained strike action over a 2.45% pay offer.The union’s negotiating team, the National Joint Council committee, will now meet tomorrow to decide what action to recommend to the union's industrial action committee that meets on Friday 27 June.Commenting on the ballot result, general secretary Dave Prentis said: "This is a solid vote for action and a clear message to the local government employers that our members are willing to fight for a decent pay rise."They are fed up and angry that they are expected to accept pay cut after pay cut, while bread and butter prices go through the roof. "Most of them are low paid workers, who are hit hardest by food and fuel price hikes and they see the unfairness of boardroom bonanzas and big city bonuses"Other local government workers who have to use their cars for work are being hit hard too by spiralling fuel costs and they end up subsidising their employers." UNISON head of local government Heather Wakefield added: "The employers should be in no doubt: the members have voted for a programme of sustained and escalating strike action because they are sick of being treated as the poor relations of the public sector."Their case for a realistic pay increase is indisputable. We are, of course, willing to meet with the employers at any time, but we will decide tomorrow what recommendations to make to our national strike committee."Nearly 600,000 UNISON members were balloted on industrial action; including social workers, housing benefit workers, rent collectors refuse workers, school meals staff, teaching assistants, cooks, cleaners, architects and surveyors.Almost 250,000 of those balloted earn less than £6.50 an hour and 75% of them are women.The joint unions' pay claim was for 6% or 50p an hour whichever was the greater.In Scotland, the union will ballot more than 100,000 UNISON members in July for industrial action, after they rejected a three-year offer worth 2.5% per year.UNISON also announced a lobby of the Scottish employers' organisation, CoSLA, on Wednesday 25 June."Despite public statements from CoSLA that they are still in negotiation, the employers have recently cancelled a negotiating meeting scheduled for Wednesday," noted UNISON Scotgland regional organiser Dougie Black."We have decided that our negotiators, and a representative number of our low paid members, will keep the appointment nevertheless to make the point to CoSLA that their offer is unacceptable."They will be carrying the princely sum of 46p – the total that our lowest paid members can expect their hourly rate to increase if they accepted the employers' offer."
Friday, June 20, 2008
UNISON calls for tighter regulations
on use of teaching assistants
UNISON is calling for tighter regulations on the use of teaching assistants in schools.Speaking from the union's annual conference in Bournemouth, Christina McAnea, UNISON National Secretary for Education, said: "Our members tell us they are often being asked to take on additional duties including taking whole classes."Many of them have not received the right training or support. Importantly, they are also not paid for these extra responsibilities."We are pushing the government and the employers to provide much tighter regulations and for these to be more closely monitored. "The government's wider agenda for extended services, personalised learning and targeting resources towards the most disadvantaged children, will all be put at risk if the lack of training, low pay and exploitation."Rosemary Plummer, a teaching assistant and union rep from Islington, reported that more than 40 teaching assistants from a small area of London had told her they felt they were being asked to do more than they were qualified for."They're delivering maths, they're delivering literacy and marking work - that's a teacher's job. They're being used as cut-price teachers," she said.UNISON organises more than 200,000 schools support staff.
on use of teaching assistants
UNISON is calling for tighter regulations on the use of teaching assistants in schools.Speaking from the union's annual conference in Bournemouth, Christina McAnea, UNISON National Secretary for Education, said: "Our members tell us they are often being asked to take on additional duties including taking whole classes."Many of them have not received the right training or support. Importantly, they are also not paid for these extra responsibilities."We are pushing the government and the employers to provide much tighter regulations and for these to be more closely monitored. "The government's wider agenda for extended services, personalised learning and targeting resources towards the most disadvantaged children, will all be put at risk if the lack of training, low pay and exploitation."Rosemary Plummer, a teaching assistant and union rep from Islington, reported that more than 40 teaching assistants from a small area of London had told her they felt they were being asked to do more than they were qualified for."They're delivering maths, they're delivering literacy and marking work - that's a teacher's job. They're being used as cut-price teachers," she said.UNISON organises more than 200,000 schools support staff.
'Use your liberty to promote ours'
"Please use your liberty to promote ours." The words of imprisoned Burmese leader Aung San Suu Kyi were echoed by numerous speakers at conference today as they spoke of their growing alarm at the unfolding natural disaster in Burma.It is now several weeks since Cyclone Nargis hit Burma, but the country is still reeling from its impact.Meanwhile, international aid agencies have been denied access to the stricken areas.Delegates said they were appalled at the military junta's failure to put in place any meaningful relief and rescue operation.Its response illustrated the contempt in which the regime holds the wellbeing of its own people, conference said.Talking about the problem was all very well, "but now is the time to act," urged Salford City rep Ray Walker, as conference voted to send a clear signal of support and solidarity to Burmese trade unions and the Burmese people.One of the most moving speeches of the morning came from University of Bristol rep Toe Aung, who left Burma for Britain 22 years ago.He had been to the low-lying delta devastated by the cyclone, he said, painting a picture of the people who live there – mainly farmers, growing rice for a living. His mother was born there."The people there have a simple life. They are good natured, which is why they have been exploited by the military government for so long." He did not dare visualise their pain and suffering in the wake of the cyclone, he said, telling conference: "They desperately need our help. Please show your generosity and solidarity."
"Please use your liberty to promote ours." The words of imprisoned Burmese leader Aung San Suu Kyi were echoed by numerous speakers at conference today as they spoke of their growing alarm at the unfolding natural disaster in Burma.It is now several weeks since Cyclone Nargis hit Burma, but the country is still reeling from its impact.Meanwhile, international aid agencies have been denied access to the stricken areas.Delegates said they were appalled at the military junta's failure to put in place any meaningful relief and rescue operation.Its response illustrated the contempt in which the regime holds the wellbeing of its own people, conference said.Talking about the problem was all very well, "but now is the time to act," urged Salford City rep Ray Walker, as conference voted to send a clear signal of support and solidarity to Burmese trade unions and the Burmese people.One of the most moving speeches of the morning came from University of Bristol rep Toe Aung, who left Burma for Britain 22 years ago.He had been to the low-lying delta devastated by the cyclone, he said, painting a picture of the people who live there – mainly farmers, growing rice for a living. His mother was born there."The people there have a simple life. They are good natured, which is why they have been exploited by the military government for so long." He did not dare visualise their pain and suffering in the wake of the cyclone, he said, telling conference: "They desperately need our help. Please show your generosity and solidarity."
Diversity 'is not the problem'
Racism, discrimination and poverty are the main barriers to integration - not cultural diversity, UNISON's national delegate conference declared today.Delegates voted for a range of measures to defend and promote multiculturalism and community cohesion. And they reaffirmed the union's commitment to opposing the far right and fighting racism.That fight needs to be year-round, not just at election-time, conference said, noting concern at the rising popularity of the BNP, and sending a message to all UNISON members that "the campaigning has got to start now."It was for everyone to tackle racism wherever they confronted it, and to work with all appropriate organisations to bring their communities together, urged speaker after speaker."As a union we can't just talk about this; we have to put in the resources and our time and energy, in our workplaces and on the streets," said Northern regional convenor Clare Williams."In UNISON we can rightly be proud of our campaigning work against the BNP... but let's be clear, we have still got work to do," she said."This is our message to the BNP," she said: "We will challenge you wherever you are until there is not a single BNP councillor and you are back in the gutter where you belong."Conference condemned government attacks on migrant workers, particularly ministerial statements which fuelled the far right and gave credence to the right-wing gutter press. Delegates also condemned media coverage "designed to create a climate of Islamophobic hysteria and isolate, demonise and even criminalise Islamic religious practices, choice of dress and cultural expression. "We regard these attacks as essentially racist," conference said.Conference also backed continued support for the joint UNISON and National Assembly Against Racism campaign, One Society, Many Cultures.Leading the call on behalf of the union's national black members' committee, Bev Millar reminded delegates why it was important to promote racial harmony."Where multiculturalism is celebrated, diversity is welcomed and racism is combated," she said. "Britain is a dynamic and successful multicultural society thanks to the contribution of all its citizens."Multiculturalism enriches us all by encouraging different ethnic groups to share their cultural heritage, added Rochdale branch delegate June Poole."We're already neighbours," she said - let's be neighbourly. "And remember, we're all different, but we're all equal."
Racism, discrimination and poverty are the main barriers to integration - not cultural diversity, UNISON's national delegate conference declared today.Delegates voted for a range of measures to defend and promote multiculturalism and community cohesion. And they reaffirmed the union's commitment to opposing the far right and fighting racism.That fight needs to be year-round, not just at election-time, conference said, noting concern at the rising popularity of the BNP, and sending a message to all UNISON members that "the campaigning has got to start now."It was for everyone to tackle racism wherever they confronted it, and to work with all appropriate organisations to bring their communities together, urged speaker after speaker."As a union we can't just talk about this; we have to put in the resources and our time and energy, in our workplaces and on the streets," said Northern regional convenor Clare Williams."In UNISON we can rightly be proud of our campaigning work against the BNP... but let's be clear, we have still got work to do," she said."This is our message to the BNP," she said: "We will challenge you wherever you are until there is not a single BNP councillor and you are back in the gutter where you belong."Conference condemned government attacks on migrant workers, particularly ministerial statements which fuelled the far right and gave credence to the right-wing gutter press. Delegates also condemned media coverage "designed to create a climate of Islamophobic hysteria and isolate, demonise and even criminalise Islamic religious practices, choice of dress and cultural expression. "We regard these attacks as essentially racist," conference said.Conference also backed continued support for the joint UNISON and National Assembly Against Racism campaign, One Society, Many Cultures.Leading the call on behalf of the union's national black members' committee, Bev Millar reminded delegates why it was important to promote racial harmony."Where multiculturalism is celebrated, diversity is welcomed and racism is combated," she said. "Britain is a dynamic and successful multicultural society thanks to the contribution of all its citizens."Multiculturalism enriches us all by encouraging different ethnic groups to share their cultural heritage, added Rochdale branch delegate June Poole."We're already neighbours," she said - let's be neighbourly. "And remember, we're all different, but we're all equal."
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