Don't usually like massive threads, but want to expand on this condensed reaction Friday's offer/agreement on #USS re
#USSstrike #ucustrike #Strikefor USS #NoCapitulation #NoDetriment 1/9
#USSstrike #ucustrike #Strikefor USS #NoCapitulation #NoDetriment 1/9
While I agree with all the #NoDetriment statements about being naive to trust UUK/'indepdendent' panel, & related demands/amendements suggested for the statement, believing that a more specific clause would be the end of the struggle is equally naive. 2/9
We could strike until we got everything we wanted writ down,but at some point we'll go back to work (!)&then inevitably pension manager crooks will continue attempts to subvert the agreement, inc using requirements of the pensions regulator to continually revisit arrangements 3/9
The point is that democratic labour politics has to be ongoing; can't be just in one moment. Equal appointments to the panel &removing casting vote, is a massive change, but one that can't be taken for granted; needs continued agitation (inc threat of more industrial action) 4/9
This means a) being ready to take ind action demonstrably strong enough to stop/rewind any further destruction, at any moment (April panel report might put off industrial action to the autumn; but strike in autumn would be powerful,with demands to RETURN to fair pension fund) 5/9
(b) strike can't be a permanent condition; we need to be a union movement that is actively challenging detriment to our work conditions (and wider injustice) beyond strike action - in the #USS case, making sure that... 6/9
... the @ucu panel members are both politically and technically aware and strong, and that the panel discussions are open and democratic (meaning members are meaningfully consulted and engaged throughout the process, not at the end) 7/9
(c) on the idea that stopping the strike action now would 'lose momentum' - it is up to us as members and branches to keep up momentum; pointing out we have had success in getting employers to admit they were wrong; and... 8/9
we must keep revitalised energy/engagement going on variety of campaigns (outsourcing, precarious work, tuition fees, REF/TEF/KEF, democratic decision-making etc) as well as pensions. No reason this momentum can't be built on beyond current strike - if we (members) do it. 9/9
