Key role at Conference

Scotland again had a major role at UNISON National Conference in June, writes SiU Editor John Stevenson.

The Public services, pensions, international, migrant workers and underfunding of social care debates had key contributions from Mike Kirby, Jane Carolan, Bob Revie, Pat Rowland among others.

The energy debate tackled safe and sustainable energy for all of us. A higher profile for Health and Safety was also demanded, valuing the work of our Health and Safety reps.

The fight to defend council housing was the last debate with a mention for Edinburgh tenants who rejected stock transfer.

A defining point in the week was the moving and inspirational speech by Thabitha Khumalo of the Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions.

On the international front we had a role in facilitating dialogue between Palestinian and Israeli trade unionists.

As Mike Kirby said, "We deplore violence against people, violence from any quarter section or state against any people. We can seek to influence Governments but we cannot determine what happens. However, we have seen in parts of the islands where we organise, that trade unions can bring people together."

Full Conference reports at www.unison-scotland.org.uk/conf2006

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