February 2002

W’ton, Bilston & District TUC Secretary’s Report Feb 2002

2002 Affiliations Affiliated membership: 11,726
amicus-MSF 0558, amicus-MSF Craft 13/D, ASLEF, CWU(W.Mids&Worcs), CYWU, FBU, GPMU, ISTC(Hall Palm), ISTC(Monmore Tubes), NASUWT, NULMW, NUT, POA, TGWU 5/748, TGWU 5/836, UNISON General, UNISON Healthcare, UNISON South Staffs

GMB, NATFHE, RMT & UNISON Health branch affiliations are overdue.

The position of President is vacant, we are seeking nominations from branches
New Executive Committee Officers:
Rob Marris (Vice-President), Nick Kelleher (Secretary), John Grant (Treasurer)
Dave Joynson (Minutes Secretary), Don Ash (Publicity Officer) & Satwant Sagoo

The EC is currently looking into the possibilities of setting up our own website. We have been quoted for set-up and running costs with no expertise required to update. Is anyone willing to take on the responsibility of keeping it updated should we set one up?

This month we will be hosting a delegation from the Friction Dynamics dispute. The dispute at Caernarfon-based car parts manufacturer Friction Dynamics, has been running since April last year when TGWU workers voted 91% for a week’s strike over proposed removal of statutory health and safety rights, cuts to holidays and shift changes. After the strike there was a lock-out and scabs were brought in and a pay cut proposed. In June 2001 they were sacked after voting to continue strike action. www.frictiondynamex.co.uk

We are also looking for assistance with the organising of this year’s May Day rally which will be on the eve of council election day.

Next W’ton TUC delegate meetings: Committee Room 1, Civic Centre, 7-15pm:Thu21 Feb&Thu21 March
Next Executive Meetings: Briefing Room 1, 7-30pm Thu 14 March & Thu 11 April

• Searchlight Voluntary & Public Sector Employees Combatting Hate, Drum, B’ham Thurs 28 february
• Conference to defend asylum seekers – Manchester Sat 23 March
• Tolpuddle festival July 20/21