National Delegate Conference 19-22 June
2007
Campaign for united fight on pay south of border - and warning
for Scotland
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Jane Carolan
Members insulted by pay offers |
Conference demanded that the government abandon its 2% public sector
pay freeze and laid out a campaign for fair pay across the public
sector south of the border which could involve strike action coordinated
with other public sector unions. But there's a warning for Scotland.
"Our members have been insulted,” said NEC member Jane Carolan,
introducing the debate. "If this government truly wants 21st century
public services, then it will have to pay 21st century pay rates.
"But unions cannot fight these battles alone,” she added. "This
composite commits us to a united front, to work with the PCS, the
GMB, NUT, UCU, CWU, Unite and other trade unions.”
And in case Scotand felt it was safe from the attack on pay, Scottish
Convenor Mike Kirby told England delegates, "What you face
today, we face tomorrow".
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| Mike Kirby |
"Devolution means that for 75% of members in Scotland the
servics in which they work are financially controlled by the Scottish
Parliament", explained Mike.
"There is a stand-alone local government negotiating body
and we're into the second year of a two year deal and consulting
on the 2008 claim. Health is subject to the UK pay review bodies.
Scottish ministers have agreed to fully implement with no phasings
but they're determined to implement 2.5% despite no agreement."
These, the police services, voluntary sector and 'quangos' are
all subject to Scottish ministers pay guidleines which in turn are
based on UK Treasury guidelines and the figures do not vary",
warned Mike.
While things may differ and technicalities about trade disputes
could cause a problem, Mike underlined the need to back our fellow
members cross the UK.
"Just as on 29 March on pensions, we know that the UNISN identity
is paramount and we are part of this", he stressed.
Jane Carolan told delegates to return to their branches and talk
to members to prepare for a ballot on strike action.
"You are this union's leaders - take the lead,” she urged them.
"Go back to your branches and prepare them for the battle ahead.
"It's time to use our trade union principles: educate, agitate,
organise and mobilise. Our cause is just, we can win.”
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