Conference deplores dismissal of HMRC reps
Conference deplored the actions of HMRC in dismissing two PCS reps from Benton Park View, and in recent weeks, for launching a further two conduct and discipline cases.
John of HMRC Merseyside branch moved motion A355 which explained that these cases are linked to the trade union activity during the targeted action in 2023.
He said: “What has happened to our comrades at Benton Park View demonstrates a disgraceful abuse of position by some senior managers in HMRC. As a direct result of organising the targeted action at their workplace, they have been disgracefully targeted, disciplined and dismissed. They took that action on behalf of us all, organising the strikes, leading our campaign at the vanguard. As a result they have lost their job.”
He asked if they get away with what happened at Benton Park View who is next?
“If it happened to them, it can happen to you,” he warned.
He called on conference to “rise up to show the sacked reps and those still under investigation this is PCS, we’ve got your back.”
Problems in the workplace
A recent survey of members in the branch identified that 64% of respondents had experienced problems in the workplace, and almost 76% of respondents said they had no confidence that management would take any action to address any concerns members may have.
Conference heard via video from one of the sacked reps.
They said the employer’s action “shows to us that HMRC does not care about its staff.”
“I have lost my job and career and the only thing I’m guilty of is helping our members.”
The rep received a standing ovation from delegates.
Stand shoulder to shoulder
Bobby of HMRC Glasgow branch said: “We stand shoulder to shoulder with the sacked reps. We oppose the victimisation of reps and support our comrades in Newcastle.”
Colette Smith spoke in support of the motion on behalf of the NEC and said: “We need to take a stand and prevent any rep ever going through the vile treatment that these reps have been subjected to.”
The motion was carried unanimously and afterwards delegates stood to hold “We support sacked reps” cards.
Find out more about PCS conference on our dedicated web page and follow the latest updates on our website and on social media with the hashtag #PCSADC