TUC on workless households

TUC on workless households @
http://www.tuc.org.uk/economy/tuc-19966-f0.cfm

TUC on growth

TUC on growth figures @
http://www.tuc.org.uk/economy/tuc-19946-f0.cfm

Urgent jobs action needed

The Government must address the deterioration in the labour market as a matter of urgency, the TUC said as August's jobs figures showed that unemployment was rising once again.
The increase in the jobless tally underlined the weakness in the labour market, with the number of vacancies down to levels last seen in 2009. The TUC added that the stagnating economy would mean further rises in unemployment in the months ahead.
Female unemployment was at a 23-year high, and with public sector job losses mounting, the employment prospects for many women were looking bleak. The unwelcome return of rising youth unemployment was another worrying feature of the new figures, with more than one in five young people out of work.
Full TUC reaction @
http://www.tuc.org.uk/economy/tuc-19919-f0.cfm

nick venedi

TUC highlights growth fears

Official figures released in the weeks leading up to Congress confirmed fears that recovery in the UK economy remains sluggish at best.
Figures showing growth of just 0.2 per cent in the second quarter of 2011 were evidence that government policies were failing, the TUC said.
Earlier in August, the TUC reacted with concern to the Bank of England's announcement that it no longer expected the economy to grow this year as quickly as was previously thought.
TUC on growth figures @
http://www.tuc.org.uk/economy/tuc-19946-f0.cfm

nick venedi

TUC highlights growth fears

Official figures released in the weeks leading up to Congress confirmed fears that recovery in the UK economy remains sluggish at best.
Figures showing growth of just 0.2 per cent in the second quarter of 2011 were evidence that government policies were failing, the TUC said.
Earlier in August, the TUC reacted with concern to the Bank of England's announcement that it no longer expected the economy to grow this year as quickly as was previously thought.
TUC on growth figures @
http://www.tuc.org.uk/economy/tuc-19946-f0.cfm

Nick Venedi

Congress countdown

Preparations are continuing for the 143^rd TUC Congress, which runs from 12 to 14 September.
The final agenda for has been published, with a wide range of issues up for debate, including cuts, public sector pensions, the economy, equality, and labour rights at home and abroad. The Congress briefing, programme of business and other documents can also be found on the TUC website.
As well as speeches from TUC general secretary Brendan Barber and TUC President Michael Leahy, the conference will be also be addressed by Labour leader Ed Miliband.
This year's Congress proceedings will for the first time be streamed live on the TUC website. Decisions will also be regularly updated on the site.
Read the full agenda @
http://www.tuc.org.uk/the_tuc/tuc-19928-f0.cfm

Nick Venedi

Sally Bercow

Sally Bercow the woman in big brother on c 5 who is known for not being known for anything else apart from being married to John Bercow, is up for eviction the first week. I just feel sorry for the Speaker for having the misfortune of having to put up with all the none sense!

Nick Venedi

http://www.britaine.co.uk/web/120AC20419D740/the-world-of-nick-venedi

The riots

There can be no excuse for the criminal activity we have seen on our streets this week and no one should try explaining what happened using political theories, there was nothing political about what these thugs did they should be punished.

Nick venedi

Attacking communities

The criminal thugs that have attacked our communities must not be allowed to get away with it and must be punished. They have attacked and destroyed their own communities.

Good initiative

Great to see so many people on the streets of Clapham who gave up their own time to go and clean up the mess created by the thugs the night before. The community spirit was great!

Nick Venedi

Unemployment figures

Labour market figures released in July showed worrying signs for the future, the TUC said in response.
While the increase in headline employment and fall in headline unemployment were encouraging, the TUC noted that more than 1.5 million people claimed Job Seekers' Allowance in June, a rise of 24,000 on May and the biggest monthly increase in over two years.
Ahead of the figures being released, the TUC published research showing that the last 20 years has seen a significant increase in the proportion of over-50s and people over retirement age in employment.
TUC on jobs figures @

nick venedi

interesting sites, by Nick Venedi

http://www.strongerunions.org/2010/07/01/facility-time-here-we-go-again/

nick venedi

London Olympics, by Nick Venedi

All doom and gloom around us apart from the fact that we the citizens of London are going to have the Olympics here in our city one year from today! Good news at last!

Nick Venedi

ACT NOW: release the Iranian Two

The TUC and Amnesty International UK have launched an online appeal demanding the immediate release from detention of Reza Shahabi Zakaria and Ebrahim Maddadi of the Union of Workers of the Tehran and Suburbs Bus Company (Sherkat-e Vahed).

http://www.tuc.org.uk/international/tuc-19844-f0.cfm

Ed Hall by Nick Venedi

Great exhibition by Ed Hall in Manchester to do with banners.

http://www.phm.org.uk/changing-exhibitions-gallery/on-the-march-an-exhibition-of-banners-made-by-ed-hall/

Nick Venedi

Nick Venedi

Nick Venedi is a well known blogger. Nick Venedi started blogging in 2009 and has build a following since then. Nick Venedi was Branch Secretary for Lambeth Unison until March 2010.

Nick Venedi

other links of Nick Venedi include http://www.lawatwork.blogspot.com/

Nick Venedi

Facilities

It is absurd that in times of massive redundancies and reorganisations employers do not allow for more time off for tu officials to represent those who are on the firing line. This is the time when more time off should be agreed and more activists should be given time off not less!

nick venedi

http://www.strongerunions.org/2010/07/01/facility-time-here-we-go-again/

Cyprus by Nick Venedi

Supporters of the unification of the divided island gathered in London today to demonstrate against the continued occupation of the Republic. Lets hope that the latest round of talks will produce a positive result?

nick venedi

http://www.lawatwork.blogsot.com/

by Nick Venedi

good links

http://lambethunison.blogspot.com/2009/01/annual-report-of-branch-secretary-nick.html

nick venedi

interesting sites

http://www.strongerunions.org/2010/07/01/facility-time-here-we-go-again/

nick venedi

Cyprus by Nick Venedi

The Republic of Cyprus was invaded in July 1974, the invasion by the huge Turkish army created 200,000 refugees, people who were forced out of their own homes, around 2,500 civilians were killed on both sides. Turkey occupied 37 % of the island and later on in the 1980s declared a state in the north part that no country recognises apart from Turkey.

The situation continues and the issue of reunification remains unresolved. There are numerous UN resolutions making it clear that there is only one Cyprus Republic and talks have been taking place but with no result.

It is my belief that the reason there hasn't been a solution is because of the immaturity of politicians on both sides and the intransigence of Turkish foreign policy. Turkey insists that their military should have control over the island something that is of course unacceptable to the Republic.

I am hoping that the two communities will be able to see that they can definitely live together in peace and harmony. I see members of the Greek and Turkish community forming close relations and friendships here in north London so there is no reason as to why that can't be done on the island. Remove the military occupation of the north part and unify the island. That is what all sensible people would want. The rule of international law must apply to the Turkish military as well!!!

Nick Venedi

http://www.lawatwork.blogspot.com/

strike action

Jon Rogers is right to say that we need to ensure that we have unified action across all the unions if our efforts to stop the government over its attack on our pension scheme is to have any Chance of success. Dave Prentis is also correct to say that one day of action isn't going to be enough. I think we all know that!

But coming from the front line and having seen efforts that my own branch was involved with for more than 20 years I would say that 3 things are important for success.

nick venedi

http://www.lawatwork.blogspot.com/

Cyprus

The President of the National Federation of Cypriots in the United Kingdom, Peter Droussiotis, is this week calling on UK Cypriots and friends of Cyprus to demonstrate their collective commitment to a free, united Cyprus. Mr Droussiotis is urging British Cypriots and friends of the island to remind Prime Minister David Cameron of the strength of opposition to Turkey’s continuing military occupation of Cyprus’s northern part, by joining a picket, march and rally in London on Sunday 17^th July 2011.

The annual rally, organised by the Federation to mark Turkey’s military invasion of Cyprus in July 1974, is the biggest opportunity for the UK Cypriot community and friends of Cyprus to voice their feelings on the tragic and scandalous division which still plagues the island 37 years after the Turkish army invaded and occupied its northern territory.  

Mr Droussiotis called for a renewed effort by UK Cypriots, saying:

“It is as important as ever that we demonstrate our support for a free and united Cyprus, as well as our opposition to the illegal Turkish military occupation. A solution is eminently achievable if the international community puts pressure on Turkey and encourages the right environment for a settlement. And our Government in the United Kingdom must be made aware that our community in this country will not give up on Cyprus.

“The ongoing dialogue on the island must not be allowed to break down on account of Turkish intransigence. The United Kingdom has particular obligations to Cyprus, as a Guarantor Power of the island’s independence and territorial integrity, to use its influence over Turkey to ensure that the latter works genuinely for a just and lasting settlement. Turkey must no longer block progress and that message must get through to Ankara. The Cypriot community in the UK must remind the British Government of its special responsibilities to Cyprus.”

Sunday’s actions will begin with picketing outside the Turkish Embassy in Belgrave Square from 3.00pm where a letter of protest addressed to the Turkish ambassador will be posted at the Turkish embassy. This will be followed by a march through central London to Trafalgar Square where a rally will be held at 4.30pm. A Federation delegation will hand in a petition to the British Prime Minster at 10 Downing Street immediately before the rally. 

The main speaker at the event will be Cyprus Government Spokesman Mr Stefanos Stefanou. Numerous British Parliamentarians and MEPs will join Mr Droussiotis, as well as representatives of Cypriot refugee organisations and occupied municipalities in Cyprus, on the platform in Trafalgar Square to show their solidarity with the Cyprus cause.

ENDS

nick venedi

b sky b

Well didn't take much of an interest in this take over before and why should I? But it now looks like Vince Cable was right. It is not healthy for a democratic country to allow for one individual to gain control over a large section of the media especially if what he or they take over can be influenced by their politics? This can't be right?

nick venedi

domestic abuse

 is still the case that most murder victims are killed by someone they know and more often than not by someone who lives with them or they know quite well. That has not changed.

But very little is done to help women who are often the victims of violent and abusive husbands or boyfriends. The police will rarely act when given information and they will more often than not wait until some major incident takes place. This is, more often than not, very late.

It would appear that even though we have matured and have moved on in many ways as a society our sophistication has not changed attitudes towards women in abusive relationships and I think much more needs to be done to change that balance.


http://www.womensaid.org.uk/?gclid=CMvtr_219qkCFdkz3wodfHPZaw

nick venedi

freedom of the press

A friend pointed out last night that the News of the World has been in business for 164 years so, according to him, it was sad that it has been closed down. I can understand why someone can feel sentimental about the death of a paper (I wouldn't call it newspaper) and I also feel that the proprietor is killing the journal to deflect the real issue in question.

Glad of course that the people who work for NOTW will be found other jobs and I hope they will be protected. The fact is that some news organisations have gone beyond what is sensible journalism and have abused the right of expression. A new law which ensures that ordinary people are not subjected to abuse is introduced quickly but at the same time we must not censor real and true stories.

Nick venedi

freedom of expression

We are all for having freedom of expression and indeed that is why and how some of us are able to write blogs such as this one, but the freedom comes also with the obligation to act in a responsible way and not to use methods that are wrong or unacceptable to get information.

It is good that the paper accused of wrong doings will be closing down but of course those who work there will be effected severely and pay the price once again.

nick venedi

euro

I was astonished to hear on Greek television a demand made by the Finland PM who wants Greece and the other country's that are getting the loans from Euro land that they would need to mortgage most of the property owned by the state as a form of a guarantee. The talk in Greece is that the country is slowly losing its independence and there are now questions over sovereighty. I do not think for a single minute that the Greek state does not need to implement reforms to improve systems for tax collection etc but at the same time it is not right that the country is now been told what to do? Is this what European Federalism means? And do the measures involve the poorest members of society having to pay for the mistakes? This cant be right?

Prentis

I reproduce below the statement from our General Secretary Dave Prentis on the NHS.

'Our National Health Service celebrates its 63rd birthday this week. It is one of our greatest achievements that has saved the lives and stopped the suffering of countless millions, regardless of their ability to pay.

We celebrate, too, this week the men and women who worked tirelessly from the very start to make the NHS what it is today.

But our NHS faces its greatest challenge yet. This coalition government’s Health and Social Care Bill still poses the serious threat of privatisation and a return to the bad old days of queue-jumping by those who can afford to pay.

So, in celebrating 63 years of a great success story, remember we have to do everything in our power to defend it from attack. '

lobby

we had a major event last week held by other unions. It is now important that we develop a strategy within our own union, Unison, which includes a programme of Industrial Action. I am reproducing below a letter written by Jon Rogers, NEC member, inviting branches and individuals to attend the lobby of the Unison NEC. I am sure Jon won't object to me publishing this:



Dear UNISON activist,

The first meeting of UNISON's newly elected National Executive Council takes place from 2pm on Tuesday 12 July to 1pm on Wednesday 13 July. I am sure that one of our main topics of discussion will be the current pensions dispute.

A number of UNISON activists, believing that it is important that we maintain the maximum unity, both between health and local government (and other sectors!) within UNISON and with other trade unions, intend to lobby the NEC members on their way in to the meeting on the morning of Wednesday 13 July.

I am therefore sending this message "unofficially" to UNISON branches in London for whom I have an email address to encourage you to attend this lobby next Wednesday morning, 13 July. I believe that if we are to avoid the trap of "divide and rule" tactics from the Government it is important that we plan now for unified action in the autumn.

The lobby will take place from 8.30am onwards outside the new Headquarters building in the Euston Road (nearest tube, Euston). Those of you on Facebook can access details at http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=186388651414998.

banana time?

Picture this, February 2014 and all is not well in Euro land, more bail outs and the value of the Euro has collapsed, a return to the Mark, Frank, Drachma or Peseta is not possible as they are no where to be seen. English currency remains strong so there is no alternative other than to adopt the banana as the only reliable form of currency in the Euro zone. And of course if nothing else works you can always eat the banana thus getting the feeling of satisfaction...

Can this happen? Of course not but the situation right now in Europe is looking chaotic. Greece has gone down the Khyber pass with Portugal, Ireland, Spain and Italy waiting to join in.

I have always declared my support for the European project for political and not economic reasons but have never expected the current situation to arise. On the other hand how the hell can you have common currencies between states with completely different and unequal economies? And how do you have monetary union when there is no central bank regulating all economies in the zone with real powers? Call me old fashion but I would prefer to see the banana!!

leaders

Its nothing new and it always seems to happen. We always tend to end up hating those who lead us mainly because they make difficult decisions when in power that we disagree with.

I have a slight difficulty with this one as well. I have to confess that I am not too keen on the man as he displayed a huge level of arrogance following the biggest demonstration ever against the war in Iraq. He ignored all those voices and took us into an unpopular war. I don't think history will forgive him for that. But at the same time he did win 3 elections for the Labour party and he was quite dynamic.

I would say that all leaders are always disliked after they end their term in office. This is fuelled by those left behind who are paranoid about the level of influence an ex leader can exert. It happened to Thacher, Churchill, Blair and now Brown and it will continue happening for ever. It also happens in smaller organisations where a leader moves out, I have experienced that myself but I am big enough to know that's how it works. There are always those who appreciate what one has done and they are what matters.

Euro crisis

European Ministers agreed the 5th installment of loans to Greece. The Greek press has welcomed this move but the main opposition party ND (Conservative) made it clear that they will not be voting with the government when it comes to budget setting later on in the year. That vote would require 180 MPs to be in favor and the PASOK government can only rely on 155. Does this mean that there will be an election soon and if yes how would the 'agreement' with Europe work? Its a mess!

the banana?

I don't think there will be many tears shed if the euro was ditched in favor of a new currency, lets call it the banana? Its obvious the euro has not worked out so lets go for a banana? You can at least eat a banana if it's value goes down... just a thought..

strike action day

Community campaign groups and union activists gather around windrush square in support of those taking strike action to defend pensions in the public sector..

Athens crisis

Demonstrators and protesters are continuing action against the austerity measures passed by the government yesterday. Ruling party PASOK (A version of the Labour party) got 155 vote whilst 138 MPs voted against the proposals, it remains to be seen whether the government will be able to make people pay the huge tax rises, the privatisation of many public sector services will go ahead with the ports authorities (Greece has one of the most extensive port networks in Europe) to ho ahead as soon as. The port of Piraeus will be privatised, The government has 74% share in that right now. This will of course mean job loses and deterioration of terms and conditions of service.

 

30 June

Glad to see that there will be a gathering tomorrow around 11 at wind rush square in support of those taking strike action. Wind rush square SW2 at 11 tomorrow. Will try and be there.

Ed Miliband

Well the union vote got him elected to be party leader but our great leader is now telling us not to have strike action tomorrow to defend out pensions? Let me get this right, the unions created the labour party to represent them in parliament, they then elect a leader who would not have been in that position had they not voted for him and now he tells us we are wrong? Ah.. wonder what the argument in his favor is now then

crisis

The Voulli ton Ellinon (Greek parliament) has started the debate before the vote is taken tomorrow, the government will need 151 votes to push the measures through. The opposition ND (Conservative) are doing their best to ensure that the government loss the vote, and despite the fact that I also reject the austerity measures the truth is the opposition would not have a bloody clue on what to do and how to save the country. It was, after all, during their five years in power that the country was forced into the current position, so the opposition are being totally reckless and irresponsible. The power now rests with the people who have had enough and it looks to me like Greece would take the default road and revert to the old drachma, this of course does not mean immediate salvation as the debts will remain where they are. Bugger knows how we get out of this one now!

crisis

WhatI was in Athens 2 weeks ago on the 20th day of protests. People are constantly on the streets in most major cities protesting against further austerity measures. I had the feeling that the battle in Athens was more of a fight between the capitalist system and ordinary people who are not prepared to take any more.

General strike

People from the south of the country started marching from last week, thousands are walking from the city of Sparta in the Peloponnese towards Athens. More are moving from the northern cities of Macedonia and Thessaloniki towards Athens.

The general strike starts from tomorrow Tuesday the 29th and Wednesday 30. Athens is expected to come to a complete standstill.

Tony Blair

Its nothing new and it always seems to happen. We always tend to end up hating those who lead us mainly because they make difficult decisions when in power that we disagree with.

Briefly watched the Andrew Marr programme yesterday morning where Tony Blair was interviewed. You could see that he looked uncomfortable knowing that he is not a very popular man and isn't liked by many people.

I have a slight difficulty with this one as well. I have to confess that I am not too keen on the man as he displayed a huge level of arrogance following the biggest demonstration ever against the war in Iraq. He ignored all those voices and took us into an unpopular war. I don't think history will forgive him for that. But at the same time he did win 3 elections for the Labour party and he was quite dynamic.

Greece

There are of course 2 options. One is to go ahead with the austerity measures which will punish the poor in the country and not affect the rich that much and two default.

It is my opinion that George Papandreou will not be able to get enough support in Parliament on Tuesday and win the vote. This is because the people of Greece through PAME ( a TU movement against the cuts) will intensify the rate of protest and more pressure will be put on individual politicians who are members of the PASOK governement to either vote against or abstain, if they don't then they will live to regret their decision. So I am sure that the government will not win the vote and the austerity measures will not be imposed.

If the austerity programme does not go through then the country will be defaulting de facto. Which means that Greece will be leaving the euro and not paying back its debts. This will of course also mean that Portugal and Ireland will try and follow the example which will mean a run on the euro with severe consequences on the world economy. We are, unfortunately, at the start of a major financial disaster... I hope I am wrong.

EDF

 am rather annoyed and others seem to be too with the latest EDF energy advert on national television. The ad tells us how important it is for our lives to be graced by EDF which is great as I am one of their customers but then it goes on to say that the '.. Olympics are 100 years old..' then blah blah blah, this is such a misrepresentation of history as the Olympics are of course 4,500 (approximately) years old and they certainly didn't start in Streatham Hill 100 years ago! It's insulting to the Greeks who are of course the first to head the Olympic parade and of course the games cannot start before the flame is brought over from Olympia not the one in Kensington!!

Will someone in EDF go and change the content of the ad please? It is incorrect, next you know we will be seeing a remake of Troy with a Costa cafe on the beach? Get it right or don't bother!!

local government conference

The annual conference which takes place in Manchester this year has started with calls by the local government conference 9Sunday and Monday before main conference) for industrial action to defend workers pension rights.

In debates that were characterised by determination, speaker after speaker emphasised the need to "build for an historic victory", with head of local government Heather Wakefield telling delegates that the union would be "in UNISON in unison".

Ms Wakefield condemned government Danny Alexander as a "thieving tomcat" after he spoke out on Friday, pre-empting the result of ongoing negotiations between the government and unions, and she urged activists to make sure that any strike ballot would be won "with the sort of majority that leaves this government in no doubt".

Greek crisis

The Socialist government (Labour type of socialist) of Greece has survived the vote of confidence last night with just 155 votes. It remains to be seen whether they will be able to jump through the next fence by next Tuesday when the country is required to pas the austerity measures.

The vast majority of the Greek population are against paying for the mistakes made by bankers and other financial institutions. There were huge demonstrations also in all the major cities of Spain yesterday and the day before, the Spanish people are also fighting against severe austerity measures.

Greec crisis

The Socialist government (Labour type of socialist) of Greece has survived the vote of confidence last night with just 155 votes. It remains to be seen whether they will be able to jump through the next fence by next Tuesday when the country is required to pas the austerity measures.

The vast majority of the Greek population are against paying for the mistakes made by bankers and other financial institutions. There were huge demonstrations also in all the major cities of Spain yesterday and the day before, the Spanish people are also fighting against severe austerity measures.

NUT Strike

Great news that the NUT are taking industrial action on the 30 of June but have been approached by several Unison member I know who work in schools and asked whether they will be right in refusing to cross an NUT picket line at their school? I think the answer is that they are within their rights not to do so but can someone from the NEC clarify this? I have send this message to Jon and John who are now both on the NEC and will see what their answer is if any.

Europe

 have of course supported the Euro project as long as I remember and since the days when I was an undergraduate student.

I have always been in favour of a united Europe a Federation that would not depend on the USA for support. Europe has suffered as a result of nationalism and tribal wars for centuries so a united continent would stop that. That's where my support comes from.

But I think that the project has been pushed too hard without preparation and much thought. Especially in the area to do with finances. You cannot have a common currency between states that have fundamentally different methods and systems of collecting revenue and you definitely cannot have a common currency area where there is no central bank with the power to determine financial policy. If you don't have these central controls then you allow for a situation like the current one with Greece, Ireland, Spain and Portugal, so I have no idea why this crisis was not anticipated and measures were not put in place?

AV is dead

ean?The people of Britain are not stupid and politicians should remember that. The half baked idea that was pushed through to pacify Nick Clegg has been rejected by the electorate. Ed Miliband has also got egg on his face.

AV was an idiotic system that no one explained to ordinary people it might be ok (debatable) for the Labour party to elect its leaders but it is not good enough to use for a sophisticated country like the UK, so it was thrown in the dustbin of history where it belongs. The only winners out of the entire episode have been the Tory party who are driving the Libs to oblivion avenue!

TUC Events

Across the country, trade unionists will be commemorating 1st May, International Workers' Day, with marches, rallies and events. Here are a number of events being organised by trades councils and local union groups, taking place in the days around May Day.
http://www.tuc.org.uk/union/tuc-19518-f0.cfm

Against AV

We are asked to vote for an alternative system on May the 5th this year and the Lib Democrats are pushing the idea as far as it can go. But it is a complex to understand and pointless system that will, at best, produce more coalition governments that we do not need. In addition to that it does not pass the ' my mother test'. Which means that since my mother and her friends don't understand how it works then its no good. I am against the AV system as it is being proposed come up with something simpler and I will think about it. Vote against AV.

TUC protest at initial signing of EU-Colombia trade agreement

In the face of a campaign by Colombian unions, Justice for Colombia and unions across Europe the EU has initialled a free trade agreement with the Colombian Government. The campaign however continues as the European Parliament will have to give its formal consent before the Treaty can be considered as fully ratified. The TUC calls on all MEPs to consider the appalling levels of violence still suffered by trade unionists and other human rights defenders in Colombia before they vote.
http://www.tuc.org.uk/international/tuc-19494-f0.cfm

Unions call on EU to support positive transition in Tunisia

TUC General Secretary Brendan Barber, along with his European and International counterparts, has written to the Foreign Secretary William Hague, calling on him to back an EU-wide approach to supporting democracy and decent work in Tunisia. This includes granting Tunisia preferential access to EU markets, writing off part of its debt, and supporting fundamental rights at work and good governance.
http://www.tuc.org.uk/international/tuc-19488-f0.cfm

ITUC condemns anti-union reprisals in Bahrain

The Bahraini Government has engaged in massive sackings, and threats and violence against workers and their trade union representatives in response to their participation in strikes and protests for greater democracy in the country. The ITUC and the global trade union movement have condemned these vicious reprisals.
http://www.tuc.org.uk/international/tuc-19481-f0.cfm

TUC backs Zimbabwe Vigil

The TUC is supporting the lunchtime Vigil organised by Action for Southern Africa (ACTSA) outside the Embassy of Zimbabwe, 429, the Strand, London WC2, from 13.00 to 14.00 on 18 April 2011 on the occasion of the Independence Day in Zimbabwe. The TUC joins the ACTSA in its call for democracy, justice, the rule of law and an immediate end to violence.
http://www.tuc.org.uk/international/tuc-19465-f0.cfm

Public against the cuts

Public against cuts

On the eve of the March for the Alternative, the TUC released results of a YouGov poll showing that a majority of the British people backed the aims of the demonstration.
Some 52 per cent of those questioned said they supported the mobilisation against the cuts, while just 31 per cent disagreed.
Full details @
http://www.tuc.org.uk/industrial/tuc-19397-f0.cfm

Half a million on the march

As many as 500,000 people joined the TUC's March for the Alternative on 26 March, making it the largest and most successful trade union mobilisation in living memory.
People from all walks of life and every part of Britain joined the march, which started on the Embankment and culminated with a rally in Hyde Park. Over 800 coaches and 12 special trains brought protestors to London. One person walked from Cardiff to protest against the cuts.
The event attracted a huge amount of coverage on television, radio and internet media, as well as in newspapers. Prominent throughout was the TUC's message that there is a credible alternative to austerity, based on growth, jobs and tax justice.
More on this @
http://www.guardian.co.uk/society/2011/mar/26/march-for-the-alternative-government

Ivory trade

Elephants are in more danger from poachers than ever. Recently the international ivory trade has begun flourishing again, leading to more and more illegal killing of elephants. Countries with stockpiles of ivory continue to vie to legally sell it abroad. Recent sales to Japan and China have created huge incentive for poachers to continue slaughtering elephants for their ivory, selling it into the market created by legal stockpile sales. Poaching is devastating to elephant packs, throwing apart their complex social structure and ravaging elephant population. Twenty years ago international outcry halted the trade of ivory, letting elephant herds start to recover. We need to act again to protect wild elephants.

referendum

A reminder that all eligible voters should have received a poll card by now allowing them to vote at the Referendum which is scheduled to take place on Thursday 5 May 2011. It is important for all members of the community to take part in all elections including this one. Its all about whether we change the current system.

The long march

Fina preparations are on the way to ensure that the big march to protest against government policy goes well tomorrow Saturday 26 March.

ENB

The final episode of Agony and Ecstasy was shown on BBC4 last night justifying the fact that I have to pay my television licence fee. Good work from auntie BBC.

The 3 part series followed the English National Ballet company and looked at what happens behind the scenes as major productions are being prepared. Last nights final episode was about the production of Nutcracker by Wayne Eagling

Interview with Egyptian trade union leader Kamal Abou Aita

Kamal Abou Aita is President of the Real Estate Tax Authority Union (RETA), the first independent union established under the Mubarak regime, in 2009. He has lived through many years of fierce repression against free trade unionism. Having been arrested 21 times under Sadat and Mubarak, he told the ITUC about his action with the workers at the heart of the revolution. As new trade unions emerge across the country in all sectors, he outlines the needs and challenges facing this newly emerging independent trade union movement, the driving force for a new Egypt focused on social justice.
http://www.tuc.org.uk/international/tuc-19360-f0.cfm

In a Forest dark and deep

to see this play, In a forest dark and deep, with a friend the other day at the Vaudeville theatre in the strand with Matthew Fox and Olivia Williams.

I was expecting to be bored half way through the play mainly because I am not too keen on spending 2 hours listening to two people talking to each other (sounds like a Convenors committee meeting..) but I was surprised that my interest was retained throughout.

The play is about the dysfunctional relationship between two people in the middle of a forest one rainy night who are related. The brother is what I understand to be a typical American 'I know it all guy' with firm beliefs in the nonsense he subscribes to. He thinks he is morally justified to hold racists and homophobic ideas and is basically someone who hates women even though he tries to play the big brother part. The sister on the other hand is a confused middle age woman who is obviously oppressed by the entire social system and has resorted to using her good looks to get attention from men that are basically using her? The brother is a nasty piece of work and has that typical problem of thinking that he can use his physical powers over those less powerful than himself. I hate that type of a person

Red nose day Comic Relief

Respect to those who got involved, helped and supported the events around Red Nose day organised by comic relief. We can all be cynical and say that the government should do more and use our taxes wisely so that others less fortunate can get more help but it is also good to have events like Red Nose to remind us that we all share the same planet and need to do more to help.

Call 03557 910 910 to donate or better still support one of the many charities

TUC statement on Bahrain

Security forces have launched a brutal attack on demonstrators in Manama, Bahrain's capital, just two days after the national union called a general strike. The TUC condemns the government's actions.
http://www.tuc.org.uk/international/tuc-19333-f0.cfm

English national ballet

A fantastic above average in terms of content and general interest documentary for a change produced by the BBC and shown on BBC4 following the English National Ballet company over a one year period and the work they do on a day to day bases.

There are 3 episodes, called Agony and Ecstasy (nothing to do with recreational activities..) in the series which is shown over a 3 week period. Remarkable to see how hard the ballet dancers and those in supporting roles work to produce what is perhaps the most interesting and fascinating of all arts (matter of taste and opinion of course) Lenin was a keen follower after all...

Vadim Muntagirov, a 20-year-old Russian dancer started the first episode. He ends up saving the company by doing a good job in his first major role with 38-year-old Daria Klimentová, supposedly past her best. Enter director Derek Deane, the commander in Chief and disciplinarian director who manages to terrify everyone but also produces the results.

The second episode, which was shown last night, focuses amongst other things, on how the company is affected by the coalition government decision to cut the ENB grant by 10% with the dancers and the reps attending several meetings to negotiate the avoidance of redundancies. Lets hope the wreck less government does not manage to destroy what must be a example of excellence and creativity with their obsession to reduce costs. Who the beggar voted the Libs in?? I would like to see Vince Cable in a ballerina dress, see how he manages! (or maybe not..)

Back soon

Back soon...

Join Ken at the march

Join Ken Livingstone on the big march

Arab TU's

There is a lot of material on the web about trade union developments in the Middle East/North Africa region. As part of the TUC Aid MENA Appeal, we are sharing information with our international colleagues. Find out more.
http://www.tuc.org.uk/international/tuc-19313-f0.cfm

Appeal from the TUC

The International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) has launched an International Urgency Solidarity Fund to support independent trade unions in the Middle East/North Africa (MENA) region, where democracy is spreading like wild fire, and unions are playing a key role. Donate directly online to the TUC Aid MENA appeal, or get your union to send a cheque (made out to TUC Aid MENA appeal) to the TUC.
http://www.tuc.org.uk/international/tuc-19308-f0.cfm

Stop crackdown on Iraqi protestors says TUC

TUC General Secretary Brendan Barber has today written to the Iraqi Charge D'Affaires in London expressing alarm at the recent violent crackdown against demonstrators by the Government of Iraq, and the disappearance and likely detention of four media workers.
http://www.tuc.org.uk/international/tuc-19305-f0.cfm

Hutton report on pensions

Hutton report on pensions

International Women's day 100 years

http://www.internationalwomensday.com/

March 26

With just three weeks to go before the massive national demonstration against the cuts on 26 March, the TUC has been finalising travel and logistical arrangements for the day.
All the details are available on the March for the Alternative website, which is being updated regularly. The site includes travel information from the regions, information on the route of the march and details of the rally which will take place in Hyde Park.
The site also includes a section on how to apply to be a route steward on the 26 March. The TUC is keen to recruit more route stewards to ensure the event runs smoothly and safely.
All you need to know @
http://marchforthealternative.org.uk/

Women in Zimbabwe

 have been empowered and I will educate other women”“I am no longer afraid, I have been empowered and I will educate other women, both formal and informal workers, to participate actively in the ZCTU and also in the community so that they are involved in decisions that affect their rights” Lucia Masekesa, ZCTU and ZICEA.

http://www.tuc.org.uk/international/tuc-19239-f0.cfm

Barnsley by election

Everyone of course predicted that Labour would win Barnsley but what is significant is that the Liberal Democrats who are now in bed with the Tories came 6th.

This should be a signal to an unpopular and undesirable in many ways coalition government that the electorate is not happy with the regressive policies they are serving on our tables every day. Any sensible Liberal should now take time to think as to whether their 'flirt' with power is worth total defeat at the next general election? Time to remove Nick?

Two weeks left – Hyde Park Calling – get creative

The TUC invites you to make an awareness raising TV-style advert about the impact of the spending cuts. You have 60 seconds to get your message across.
http://www.tuc.org.uk/union/tuc-19236-f0.cfm

Operation Greek vote

The aim of the project, Operation Greek vote, is to identify where those who are in the community live and help them ensure that they understand the benefits of exercising their democratic right to vote and fully participate. There are of course good practice examples of other organised communities in London that have shown us how this can be done. The most successful of these has been Operation Black vote. We will of course aim to work with other groups and unify our endeavours. Anyone who wishes to volunteer and help can contact Nick on Nick@lgr.co.uk the next major election in London is the one to elect the Mayor next year. We must be ready for that.

Resisting the cuts in London

London resisting the cuts

I have reproduced a list of meetings and marches in London published in Jon's blog, as you can see there is a lot going on and the resistance is being stepped up. The big event will of course be on the 26 March when we should

Time for the Iraqi Government to listen

Massive demonstrations will take place across Iraq tomorrow calling for jobs, basic services, an end to corruption and respect for workers' rights. TUC General Secretary Brendan Barber sent his message of solidarity to the General Federation of Iraq Workers who are backing the protests.

http://www.tuc.org.uk/international/tuc-19212-f0.cfm

Climate Week: 21 - 27 March 2011; Guidance from Green Workplaces Network

A new national occasion is set to enter the annual calendar this year with the launch of the first ever UK climate week from 21 - 27 March. Union branches can join thousands of organisations across the public and private sector showing what can be done to combat climate change. The week long campaign offers the chance for reps to offer powerful examples of union green activity and has the potential to encourage thousands more to follow in their footsteps.
http://www.tuc.org.uk/workplace/tuc-19199-f0.cfm

Gender Impact of the Cuts

This is an A4 leaflet aimed at reps, giving the key facts and arguments about why women are bearing the brunt of the government's cuts programme.
http://www.tuc.org.uk/equality/tuc-19193-f0.cfm

Labour Market Report: Number 12 February 2011

Twelfth edition of the TUC's brief report on the state of the labour market, using the latest data from the Office for National Statistics.
http://www.tuc.org.uk/economy/tuc-19194-f0.cfm

Labour Market Report: Number 12 February 2011

Twelfth edition of the TUC's brief report on the state of the labour market, using the latest data from the Office for National Statistics.
http://www.tuc.org.uk/economy/tuc-19194-f0.cfm

Join the Green Workplaces Network

This pages announces the launch of the new Green Workplaces Network.
http://www.tuc.org.uk/workplace/tuc-19203-f0.cfm

Robin (Hood) all over the world!

Thursday 17 February 2011 was the second global day of action for Financial Transaction Taxes, and there was a lot more activity than the first day in May 2010. Action was taken in 25 countries around the world, including more than half of the G20 countries whose Finance Ministers are meeting in Paris on Friday and Saturday.
http://www.tuc.org.uk/international/tuc-19185-f0.cfm

TUC backs Bahraini unions' general strike

TUC General Secretary Brendan Barber has sent a message of support to his opposite number in Bahrain, Salman Jaffar Al Mahfoodh, General Secretary of the General Federation of Bahrain Trade Unions (GFBTU). The statement expresses solidarity with Bahraini unions and the general strike called by the GFBTU for Sunday 20 February, in support of the protests for democracy. The TUC has also written to the Bahraini Ambassador in London urging him to register concerns with his government over the violent repression of demonstrators over the past few days, and calling for the right to peaceful protest to be respected.
http://www.tuc.org.uk/international/tuc-19191-f0.cfm

Stewards for March for the Alternative, London, March 26th, 2011

The March for the Alternative is going to be huge!   That means we are going to need lots of volunteer stewards to help make the day a well-run, family-friendly event. Good events need about one steward for every 50 people attending, so that tells you how many we will need.

http://www.tuc.org.uk/economy/tuc-19038-f0.cfm

Solidarity with Mexican unions

Global unions have started a week of action from 14 February until and as close as possible to the fifth anniversary of the Pasta de Conchos mine tragedy on 19 February. Support the campaign now by writing to the Mexican government through the LabourStart campaign, and joining the UK demonstration on Thursday 17 February outside the Mexican embassy.
http://www.tuc.org.uk/international/tuc-19152-f0.cfm

response from the TUC.

Proposals to encourage economic growth set out by the Institute of Directors early in February received a scathing response from the TUC.
Reducing training, restricting flexible working rights and ending national collective bargaining in the NHS would all lead to a race to the bottom and hinder prosperity, the TUC said.
More on this @
http://www.tuc.org.uk/economy/tuc-19102-f0.cfm

greek

Το άρθρο αυτό εξηγεί

Egypt and TUs

As the Egyptian revolution plays out, independent unions are calling for the dissolution of the state-run Egyptian Trade Union Federation (ETUF) as workers continue to protest for better rights and conditions. This is further evidence that Egyptians are keen on root and branch democratisation of their country, not just replacing one elite with another.http://www.tuc.org.uk/international/tuc-19153-f0.cfm

Assassination of Manuel Esteban Tejada

The TUC General Secretary has written to the Colombian Ambassador in London to protest at the killing of Manuel Esteban Tejada. Manuel is the 25 teacher to be killed in Colombia over the last 12 months.http://www.tuc.org.uk/international/tuc-19087-f0.cfm

The Kings speech

I Went to see the film The King's Speech at Clapham picture house tonight. The film was cleverly made with some splendid sound affects and it tells the story of King George the 6th who tries to overcome his speech disability with the help of a therapist played by Geoffrey Rush who, I thought, was the best actor out of them all.Disappointed with Helena Bonham Carter's part so I am crossing her off my Christmas list and don't bother writing in asking me to reconsider my decision. I thought she probably 'over acted' and did not portray the character of Queen mum ( who I did not know at all) as accurately as she could have.Colin Firth, on the other hand, was superb as he always is. No point telling you the story as you can easily go to your local library (before the Tories close them all down) and find out what its all about. So ignoring the class issues involved with the plot the film was interesting and you should all go and see it before the cultural revolution starts

Nick Venedi

Some posts..

http://www.strongerunions.org/2010/07/01/facility-time-here-we-go-again/

http://www.tigmoo.co.uk/?q=aggregator/sources/170

http://www.bristolnuj.org.uk/2010/11/11/do-bloggers-need-a-union/

Egypt

The people of Egypt have won their fight against corruption and tyranny by turning up on the streets of major cities and protesting confronting the corrupt system and saying that they will not go back home until their demands were met so they have managed, through peaceful (mainly) demonstrations to force the 30 year old regime out of office. All democrats will now hope that the transition to democracy will be a smooth one and that the elections that have been promised will be fair.

http://lawatwork.blogspot.com/2011/02/egypt-dictatorships-will-fall.html

Join “Trafalgar to Tahrir” live cross this Saturday

Saturday's demonstration in Trafalgar square (12 noon to 2pm) will feature a live video cross with protestors in Cairo's Tahrir Square, in a pioneering act of real time solidarity with the Egyptian people.http://www.tuc.org.uk/international/tuc-19127-f0.cfm

International Women's Day centenary

The TUC will be marking the 100th anniversary of International Women's Day with a celebration of sisterhood and solidarity at Congress House on March 7. Leading trade unionists from Peru, Ireland and Nepal will join Frances O'Grady and Shadow Minister for Women and Equalities Yvette Cooper as speakers at the event.Details @http://www.tuc.org.uk/events/detail.cfm?event=3273

Changes to national insurance contributions

The changes to NI contributions mean that the primary employee threshold for national insurance contributions increases by £570.At the same time National insurance contributions increase by 1% for employees. The personal allowance for income tax for basic rate tax payers under the age of 65 is increased by £1,000.

The standard rate of statutory sick pay increases from £79.15 to £81.60 per week. Information on the new rates (PDF format, 232K) can be viewed on the Department for Work and Pensions website.

Nick Venedi

Unison response to cuts

UNISON general secretary Dave Prentis chaired a special meeting of the TUC where the affiliated unions agreed to step up their united response to the government's cuts agenda.Mr Prentis declared: "I am proud to report that we agreed a join strategy to bring all unions together to fight cuts to jobs, pensions and public services."The unions agreed to defend their members against the series of attacks they are facing - including pay freezes, job cuts, privatisation and attacks on pensions - including if necessary to look at taking national and co-ordinated industrial action. And in the run up to the TUC demonstration in London on 26 March, Mr Prentis vowed that: "All unions will work with campaigning and community organisations to push our alternative agenda."Mr Prentis also spoke on public sector pensions, noting that workers would have "no choice" but to take action if their pensions were threatened. However, he explained that the government had agreed to talks on this issue and will not impose changes in March's budget. "This is an important step forward," he said.He called on members of the public, trade unions, and all those who use public services to make sure that "the 26 March demo is a huge show of strength which will show the government that we do not accept the cuts agenda."

Nick Venedi

Minimum wage

The minimum wage simply means that employers are obliged to remunerate their employees at or above the rate set.For periods starting on or after 1 October 2010, the main rate of the national minimum wage for workers aged 21 and over rose to £5.93 The development rate for workers aged 18 to 20 went up to £4.92, and for those employed and under the age of 18 who are no longer of compulsory school age rose to £3.64. A rate of £2.50 per hour was brought in for apprentices who are aged 19 or under in the first 12 months of the apprenticeship

Nick Venedi

http://www.blogsitelist.com/detail/the-world-of-nick-venedi-9194.htm

What's a Greek?

The reality is that history tends to repeat itself and trends come and go. The world keeps changing and man evolves and learns from previous experience. We as a nation of Hellenes have found ourselves in difficult situations when we allowed ourselves to become more focused on material gain. Another one of our problems comes from polarising and losing unity.
The Hellenes are not and never have been a homogeneous race. We have always been a good and diverse mixture of people who have a number of cultural individualities in common. We were best united during the Byzantine times and what brought us together was our culture, our religion and our language. We somehow allowed ourselves to lose that unity and faced occupation for 3 centuries and have been trying to define who we are since independence in 1825. But that should not be a great task as the elements that brought us together before as Greeks from Crete, Macedonia, Thrace, Cyprus or anywhere else are still there. We should all be proud of our specific differences but should also celebrate what unites us. We are modern Hellenes sons and daugthers of Byzantium and we must never allow disunity to bring us down again.

Na tin valoume tin sklava pali sto throni, na tin proskinisi o kosmos rigisa trani...

Appeal for organ donation

leading UK charity dedicated to finding life-saving donors from Black, Asian, Mixed Race and other minority ethnic communities in the UK would like to hear from you about an exciting new initiative, if you or a family member has ever donated an organ, received an organ donation or are on the organ transplant waiting list. They would like to speak to you or someone from your family in confidence. As the initiative is due to start later in February, they would like you to contact them as soon as possible. To find out more and for their contact details, visit: http://www.unison.org.uk/blackmembers/pages_view.asp?did=12419

Nick Venedi

http://www.tigmoo.co.uk/?q=aggregator/sources/170&page=4

http://www.blogsitelist.com/detail/the-world-of-nick-venedi-9194.htm

Retirement issues

A bleak picture of retirement has emerged , with a study revealing that millions of people will have to work in retirement, or struggle with barely enough income to survive. And while it is worrying enough that over 50% of those over 55 do not have savings, even more alarming is the level of debts older people are carrying.So just how bad have things become?Among the most shocking findings of the report is that one in ten people over the age of 75 are still paying the mortgage, with an average outstanding debt of £72,500. Some 20% of those over 55 still have a mortgage, with an average of £64,511 left to pay on it.This is of course of great concern to those members who have retired with average pensions falling and with government proposals to changing the way pay increases are awarded. More should be done for those in retirement to link with 'parent branches' and join the fight that we will all have to be involved with soon.

Nick Venedi

London Olympics by Nick Venedi

There is a lot of talk in the press about the advice given to the organisers of the London Olympics by those who developed the Athens 2004 event. They have warned the London committee to avoid creating venues that can't be used after the games finish.I am in two minds about the whole thing here. On the one hand I think we should all celebrate their arrival as it will give London a break and would at the very least create a mini economic boom.There is no question that the games would bring in many tourists who will spend money in the capital and that in itself will help job creation. On the other hand I can see what the organisers of Athens 2004 (I was there after it all ended) mean. You have a situation where all the new buildings you have put up are sitting there doing nothing. I think that the Athenians are still worried about the fact that it cost more than 9 billion pounds to put it all together and about 30 million a year to keep the white elephants (or pink if you prefer) sitting there doing nothing.

Nick Venedi

http://www.blogsitelist.com/detail/the-world-of-nick-venedi-9194.htm

Equal treatment directive, Nick Venedi

Another interesting change coming in from 1 October 2011, concerns the way employers deal with agency workers they will now be entitled to equal treatment on basic employment conditions, such as pay and holidays, after they have worked in a role for 12 weeks.Trades Unions have of course been arguing that all staff should be permanent but the area and the way in which some employers use agency workers has become very complicated. I remember many difficulties we had on the ground when we were dealing with permanent staff being made redundant and the employer replacing them almost immediately with agency staff that they would just bring in. There was then a conflict of interest between the two. Agency staff now will have to be treated the same way but isn't the agency the employer?

Nick Venedi

X Factor

I have suspended my quest for fairness and equality throughout the world to get online and record my profound disagreement with the panel of judges on X factor who, tonight, made the big mistake of choosing to remove Tracey Cohen and keep Katie instead. I am also rather annoyed that the British public, well the part of the public who watch the 'programme' keep voting for Wagner to stay in. He is as talented as I am Swedish in other words he can't sing and can't act, yet the public keep voting for him to stay in. This could be because the British public like to challenge the silly little judges so I have some sympathy with that as a tactic, but Tracey Cohen was the better singer and should have been kept in even though I say so myself!! Its all going pear shape, what with Sugar puff removing the gorgeous Paloma on Weds from the apprentice and the judges getting rid of Tracey tonight!! Whats the united left going to do about this??

Nick Venedi

Tribunal warning, Nick Venedi

As the government plans to launch a major review of employment tribunals, the TUC has warned that any reforms to the system could stop employees who have been wronged at work from seeking justice and give rogue employers the green light to break the law.While employer groups have been lobbying for ministers to make fundamental changes, the TUC says that rather than complaining about the cost of cases, employers should improve practices and ensure they stay within the law.Full story available @http://www.tuc.org.uk/industrial/tuc-18989-f0.cfm

Nick Venedi

Flexible working

The right to ask your employer for flexible working will be extended to parents of children under the age of 18 on 6 April 2011. It currently applies to parents of children under the age of 17, or 18 if the child is disabled.The Government is also intending to extend the right to request flexible working to all employees and will start consultation on these proposals in January 2011. The process will end and will be reviewed by December 2011

Equal Treatment for agency workers

Another interesting change coming in from 1 October 2011, concerns the way employers deal with agency workers they will now be entitled to equal treatment on basic employment conditions, such as pay and holidays, after they have worked in a role for 12 weeks.Trades Unions have of course been arguing that all staff should be permanent but the area and the way in which some employers use agency workers has become very complicated. I remember many difficulties we had .

Equality Act 2010

Under the new amended version of the Equality Act 2010, employers will be able to treat applicants with a 'protected characteristic' differently (i.e. more favourably) during the recruitment and promotion stages when dealing with a number of candidates of equal merit. This distinct treatment will only be lawful if the different process applied is intended to address under-representation in the workforce. The single public sector equality duty will also come in and both provisions will become the law as from 6 April 2011. Unions have been consulted and I would expect to see a detailed response from the TU's.