You are:

PCS leads the way as Wales TUC resolves to fight cuts

28 May 2010

The Wales TUC agreed a robust response to public sector cuts this week at its conference in Llandudno, on the basis of a composite motion largely drafted by PCS, which was carried unanimously.

The composite, which also included motions from Unite and the RMT, was seconded by PCS Wales chair, Katrine Williams and set out a clear programme of joint campaigning activity by public sector unions, including regular liaison meetings, a major conference and marches and rallies across Wales.

NEC member, Dominic McFadden also set out the alternative to cuts in seconding a Unison motion on public services. Dominic pointed out that there is a £123 billion tax gap, made up of evaded, avoided and uncollected taxes, and that if HMRC were to put resources into gathering this massive sum – instead of cutting jobs and closing offices – there would be substantially more money available for public services. Dominic also seconded an emergency motion from the FBU, seeking action to prevent human trafficking.

Another PCS motion, moved by Wales Committee vice-chair, Marianne Owens, highlighted research commissioned by the union, which demonstrated that one in four members had suffered bullying in the workplace, with many more having experienced negative behaviours more broadly defined. The motion – again, carried unanimously – expressed the concern that these problems would be exacerbated by the tough economic climate and called on the Wales TUC to press for action from the Assembly government and employers’ organisations.

In the debate on equality, Katrine also successfully moved a PCS amendment on ‘Women and Pay’, highlighting the gender pay gap within the DfT, and Marianne spoke in support of a CWU motion condemning the racist BNP.

PCS delegates also contributed to a number of other debates. Charlotte Wiltshire spoke in support of action to combat climate change and seconded an unsuccessful motion for affiliation to the ‘Youth Fight for Jobs’ campaign. Alwyn Mason backed a motion seeking greater protection for vulnerable workers. Dave Warren cited civil service experiences of the private sector in a debate on the public finances and seconded a motion on the anti-union laws, which was unfortunately defeated. Finally, Katrine Williams backed a campaign for an alternative vision of the welfare state – another motion that fell, following General Council opposition.

Furthermore, key reports to conference were presented by PCS delegates: Siân Wiblin for the Women’s Committee and Alison Burrowes for the Race Equality Committee. In addition to the twelve-strong PCS delegation, three PCS activists were at the conference representing their respective trades councils: Dave Bartlett (Cardiff), Margaret Davies (Merthyr Tydfil) and Chris Hall (Wrexham).

PCS’ high profile in the Wales TUC was also reflected in the elections held at conference. Siân Wiblin was confirmed as President for 2010/11, having been vice-president over the past year. Alison Burrowes secured one of the two seats representing black and ethnic minority members on the General Council and was re-elected to the Race Equality Committee. Marianne Owens topped the poll in the election for the Women’s Committee, Pam Blackhurst was elected to the LGBT committee for the first time and PCS Wales Secretary, Peter Harris, was also re-elected to the General Council, alongside Siân and Alison.

PCS is therefore well-placed to play a leading role in the Welsh trade union movement at this exceptionally challenging time for public services and for working people in general.

PCS has also seen media coverage of its response to the new government's cuts agenda, with Peter Harris being interviewed on GMTV and in the Daily Post and Jeff Evans due to appear on this Sunday's Politics Show.

View all News