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Privatisation is crippling union reps’ ability to carry out their duties, transport union RMT delegates warned yesterday.
Successive waves of sell-offs, franchising, outsourcing and subcontracting are all making it increasingly difficult for lay representatives and branch officers to effectively represent members, conference heard.
“Many of our members across all sectors increasingly find themselves working for subcontractors, service providers or agencies where we may not have complete organisation or recognition,” said Euro Passenger Services delegate Michael Lynch.
“This means that the small band of very active members often have to take unpaid time off from their own jobs, or worse risk disciplinary action from their own employers by ‘ducking and diving’ to cover these commitments.”
He warned that the lack of staff is making it impossible for regional organisers to provide proper representation for members.
Delegates agreed conduct a review to ensure adequate resources can be provided to members.
This could include the creation of convenor or co-ordinator roles with major employers who can openly represent members with paid time off.
London Underground delegate Mark Harding commented: “The cost should fall on the employer, not the union.”