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The North West Speaks out in support
of sacked Rolls-Royce Convener, Jerry Hicks |
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Neil Sheehan, BAESYSTEMS Convener, speaking on behalf of North West Amicus Aerospace members at the Bristol Rally said: "On behalf of BAE Systems Aerospace Workers I pledge our support and Solidarity in the fight for Jerry's reinstatement. We applaud Rolls-Royce 'Test' workers for the
ultimate all out strike action you have been prepared to take in
defence of your Shop Steward. In the North West we have seen an increasing number of Union Representatives being suspended and dismissed. Recently a GMB Shop Steward was dismissed at a Walmart/Asda distribution centre following a spontaneous walkout. Liverpool Council are currently in the process of taking action against two UNISON Reps for daring to campaign against the sale of Council Houses. |
Union Reps are the backbone of the Trade Union movement, we need to organise more effectively across the movement to ensure that they have the maximum protection from malicious and unfair treatment.
We acknowledge the excellent lead given by the General Secretary Derek Simpson and Ian Waddell the National Officer in the fight for reinstatement along with the support of the Amicus National Executive Council. Many Amicus Regional Councils have rallied to provide transport for today's rally and have committed financial support for the members in dispute. Amicus reacted decisively in calling a special meeting of the Aerospace and Shipbuilding Conference. We need to ensure that the commitments of that conference are carried through; in particular we need to provide regular financial support. The National Aerospace Sector Committee will be meeting next week and we will discuss what further assistance we can provide. |
Jerry has been awarded interim relief by a Tribunal; a clear indication that Rolls-Royce has acted improperly in dismissing him. They are compounding their indifference to UK employment law by refusing to reinstate him. We now have to vigorously campaign for a change in legislation to make reinstatement orders enforceable. Finally I bring news that the North West Regional Council has made a donation of £1,000 to the members in dispute along with initial donations of £1,700 from the Rolls-Royce, Barnoldswick site and £1,000 from BAE Systems, Samlesbury. Colleagues, your fight is our fight."
Ian Waddell, Amicus National Officer for Aerospace also speaking in support of Jerry Hicks. For more information visit |
