Solidarity with UCU

Eastbourne Trade Unionists proudly send our solidarity to members of the UCU taking strike action today at the University of Sussex and the University of Brighton, in protest at attacks on working conditions, casualisation, and changes to pension rights.

The UCU branch at Sussex told us:

High quality education and fair working conditions depend on contracts that give staff stability and continuity of employment. 68% of research staff in higher education are on fixed term contracts, with many more dependent on short-term funding for continued employment. 

A survey carried out by the University of Sussex in 2018 found that only 40% of casual staff believe that they are valued for the work they do, whilst only 35% feel safe to speak up and challenge the way things are done in the University.

Staff are on short, fixed term contracts despite working in the same departments for over 4 years. This continued lack of stability is affecting people's mental health. 

We stand together to speak up about the University's exploitation of its dedicated, hard-working staff and demand an end to precarious contracts. 

 You can find out more about the UCU action at their national website by clicking here. 

Thank You to our FBU Brothers and Sisters

A big shout out to our FBU brothers and sisters in the Fire and Rescue service, and the many others in the other emergency services and NHS for their swift and brave response to the dreadful fire at the Claremont Hotel on Friday.

The Claremont, viewed from the pier, in happier times.

 © Johanna Cuomo | Dreamstime.com

It is down to their skill and professionalism that the fire was brought under control, and no lives were lost. We extend our solidarity to the workers at the hotel, some of whom also lived in. 

The owners of the Claremont have assured the town that they have "comprehensive" interruption of business insurance. We hope that this means that their dedicated workforce will be looked after properly, and will not be left without pay (or, in some cases, accommodation) over the festive period.

We are disappointed at the sloppy journalism from The Guardian, which suggested that there was a two-hour wait from the fire being discovered to the fire brigade arriving. This was a dreadful and untrue slur- Eastbourne's firefighters were on scene within minutes. The Guardian has printed a correction, but no apology Read the article here.

Next Trades Council Meeting 26th November. Priorities for the Election?

The next meeting of the Eastbourne Trades Council will be at 7.30pm, on Tuesday 26th November 2019, at the View Hotel (formerly T&G/Unite Centre) , Grand Parade, Eastbourne. All local trade unionists (including retired trade unionists) are invited. 

A G E N D A 

1. Introductions and apologies for absence

2. Approval of any new affiliations.

3. Minutes of previous meeting and matters arising.

4. Treasurer's Report

5. TUC PRIORITIES AND THE GENERAL ELECTION 
The Trades Council is not allowed to support or endorse a specific candidate or party in the election (although some of our individual affiliated Unions can and will.)  We are able to highlight which of our specific campaigns can be lobbied for amongst Eastbourne candidates and any responses we have received. You are encouraged to bring any materials from your union that may inform this item.

6. Other Campaigning Updates

7. Any other business