Motion 70 and amendments
Congress applauds the solidarity of union members and affiliated unions standing together to take action against the poor employment practices of some employers in the education sector.
Congress asserts that trade unions must continue to work together wherever possible to achieve recognition and defend workers’ rights in an ever more hostile anti-trade union environment.
Congress notes with concern that some unscrupulous employers have sought to avoid recognising affiliated unions with an occupational and established membership claim, including through the practice of ‘sweetheart’ recognition agreements.
Congress maintains that such arrangements do not represent the interests of workers and the trade union movement.
Congress urges further action in support of the TUC disputes principles and procedures to “place a greater emphasis on unions working together on a sectoral and workplace level”.
Congress calls on the General Council to:
i. confirm that ‘sweetheart’ deals are not acceptable among TUC-affiliated trade unions
ii. encourage sector affiliates to work together to secure recognition
iii. consult affiliates on updating the TUC disputes procedure to better reflect the ambition for sectoral unions to work to secure joint recognition agreements
iv. encourage and support strong relationships between unions, supporting unions to work in collaboration to tackle shared challenges.
Mover: NASUWT
Seconder: GMB
Supporter: Community