A MOTION has been passed at a recent full council meeting (7th January 2016) expressing support for the trade unions and concerns over the Trade Union Bill which is due to be debated in the House of Lords from Monday 11th January.
It was moved by Cllr Dale Quigley, Cabinet Member for Economic Growth at Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council, and was seconded by Cllr Neil O’Brien, Ward Member for Zetland.
The motion resolves that the council wishes to continue to offer the ability of trade union members to have their subscriptions deducted at point of payment to all members of staff at the council; to support the continuation of paid time off for union representatives to carry out trade union duties; and to reaffirm the commitment in working in partnership with trade unions.
Cllr Quigley said: “I am delighted this motion has been passed due to the positive contribution that our trade union colleagues make to the best possible delivery of public services in Teesside and the wider North East.
“At a time when strikes are at an historic low the Trade Union Bill does nothing to tackle the pressing national challenge our public services, businesses and industries alike are facing.
“For many years, trade unions have represented their members, assisted in the development of a safe and decent working environment, fought for equality in the workplace and generally add to the overall ethos of our area as an attractive place to work.
“I hope that Peers give the Trade Union Bill the scrutiny it deserves as it is a serious threat to workers across Britain.”