Rather interesting debate going on at u75 discussion board. A pretty pissed off, I assume, former member of a Trade Union. is trying to set up some kind of legal assistance/employment Insurance company. The website is http://www.employees.org.uk.
The jury is out as to how genuine the guy is in setting this thing up. You can follow the debate here;
http://www.urban75.net/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=232557
My initial thoughts.
There is a situation that many lay reps do face where the member they are representing has got very little chance of succeeding at ET. This can cause friction and disillusionment amongst a minority of members (who soon become ex members) who complain vigorously against the union.
Should Unions support EVERY case to ET or should the follow a criteria on the basis of 'reasonable prospects of success'?
If they supported every case, however hopeless the case is, the union would surely go bust.
I personally believe the criteria unions follow is fair.
It is maybe a symptom of today's society that some working people see themselves as individuals rather than as part of a collective. What is often forgotten is the huge achievements achieved for working people through collective action rather than individual.
Good, strong workplace organisation is whats needed to win back members disillusioned with unions.
Key word, organisation.
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
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I've had two types of feedback.
Firstly, that a bloke with a web site and a bee in his bonnet can never replace work-place organisation, even if a legal insurance and Human Resources deal could be worked-out for members. True. The site is now more or less an advert for BECTU. It isn't taking-off as an alternative to unions.
The second type of feedback is incredulity. People may be active as reps or informally, but only 10% of T&G members voted at their last elections because the elections are indirect and opaque.
Basic union functions, like having enough well-paid officials who are good at their jobs, are not discussed.
My branch committee includes at least three Communist Pary of Britain members and has made it impossible for others to vote unless they turn-up in person to a little-known evening meeting, un-connected to any one employer.
Keyword 2: democracy
Keyword 3: transparency
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