Something I have been up to..
This was the report I handed in with a work in progress of the 47 and audio recording of a presentation to cultural memory students.
INTRODUCTION
In producing and developing my production element of the MA I have continued to tackle issues of form, content, context and audience. The project aims to explore and expose the relevance of the Liverpool 47 surcharged councillors (1983-1987) on today, though other areas of conflict, investigation and interrogation do surface and layered within this. The video is a collaborative effort with Lisa Lonsdale who I met in Liverpool in 1987, a student, activist and then ongoing theatre collaborator. We both work better with at least one other person; it gives ongoing guidance, skills sharing, reflection and energy. Lisa was 8 & half months pregnant when we shot the majority of the interviews.
This report accompanies a 46-minute video work in progress, the first 21 minutes includes some visual work apart from the interviewees, there is much more to do. There is also a full audio recording of a presentation and discussion within the Digital Gallery with Cultural memory students & a 26 second shot of students watching the work. The latter process is part of my desire to engage in discussion and consider feedback around the work. It also pushes me to expose myself, as that is also a personal challenge. I was aware this huge piece of controversial working class history, was going to be an enormous project, and not one that could be completed for this MA. However this MA has given me the opportunity to begin this with an ongoing experimentation of forms, whilst also considering the ideological debates around objectivity, purpose of art, relationships between artefacts, content, context and audiences.
OBJECTIVITY
In a book written at the time ‘Liverpool a city that dared to fight’, Mulhern & Taaffe (1987:Preface) reflect on how and why they have created a book that intended not to narrate the period but bring to the surface the process that were rarely expressed. It does not intend to be what is often referred to as an objective work, which denies editorial construction & commercial context.
In the same spirit, but with different mediums, I too acknowledge there is no attempt to play at balancing arguments. However there are responses to the period and to the mediation of the struggle clearly within the work, if it were not for that mainstream mediation and ban from office for the 47, the subject is unlikely to have been chose and needed to be re-aired in such a way. Several interviewees reflect on the media representations. I have chosen to produce an audio visual work as I better engage and express ideas in those medium as well as playing with written words into sound, images, process.
PURPOSE
In Orwell’s ‘Why I write’ (1984 p21), he argues that he wrote, not to “produce some kind of work of art but, “because there is some lie that I want to expose, some fact to which I want to draw attention … but I could not do the work. If it were not an aesthetic experience” (Orwell: 1984:8). He uses ‘Homage to Catalonia’, as an example ‘it contains a long chapter, full of newspaper quotations. Defending trotskyists who were accused of plotting with Franco.” (Orwell: 1984:8) Challenged for this chapter his response was, “I happened to know, what very few people in England know, what very few people were allowed to know…If I had not been angry about that I should have never written the book’. (Orwell:1984:8)
The need to draw attention to a past or lie, also expresses itself within the exhibition, ‘News International Wapping – 25 Years on: The workers story’. It is also within the same period of Liverpool 47 and relates to job cuts and trade union rights but also the concentration of media by one person and the potential impact on public memory and opinion. (APPENDIX 1)
FORM
The form of the project chosen, documentary, was one potential medium that could be more accessible to a wider audience than a nonfiction book or an installation. Though the space, experience of movement, opportunity to converse in the installation environment that I had created was important element of ‘liveness’ and interactivity.
This ‘documentary’ follows some conventions of a traditional documentary, with head and shoulder shots. However they are always on screen, those who narrate are never hidden, showing the constructive nature of the work. There is also the opportunity to look at each of them, their visual expressions and see a little of whom they are. Allowing the viewers time to see them, like the time given on screen to begin to represent and explore their part in the dispute with the Tory government, and later the Leadership of the labour party and others. It has become a repeated motif within the film, boxed, screened, somewhat contained because of the medium, the history, the ongoing challenge of providing an audience with so much information and maintain interest.
The expectations of how a documentary is constructed and delivered is steeped within the development of documentary form which has unhealthy links to observing ‘subjects’ as victims and some voyeurism, despite attempts to develop the form and sub categories within it. If I called this an artist documentary, would the piece then become acceptable as it stands? Why so? What does calling something an’ Artist’ work allow for and why?
Looking through some of the identified categories of documentary, which Nicholas B discusses (2001 pg 121), there are elements of the work and process that could be considered as ‘participative’ with an ongoing engagement in space, interviewees, access & contents. With the use of a formal interview process, to create different accounts of one story & aim to explore ‘our’ history not ‘a’ history. There is a strong intention of ‘expository’ documentary that aims to access memory and representations that are not in the mass media or archives. It also contains a huge amount of the ‘reflexive’ style, drawing ‘our attention to our assumptions and expectations about what documentary form itself…(&) world around us’. (Nichols: 2001:121)
REPRESENTATIONS & IDENTITY
Those taking part are mainly female; this was another key aim to create a project that better reflected those involved. Making the invisible, visible. The characters are mainly working class backgrounds, with none of usual business, academic, paid experts to the subject brought in to comment. I have chosen ‘experts’ as those who took part in the struggle. The intention was to expose how many working class people took control of their lives and began to create a world which could better provide for them and the wider society, one based on need.
Woodward K (1997 pg14) suggests that, ‘Representations produce meanings through which we can make sense of our experiences…and create possibilities of what we are and what we become”. Though I agree with the first part, I could not say that this work, or several cultural products alone could be the sole influencing factor on believing a set of ideas or a media product. It could be how their pensions are being cut or the proposed NHS cuts. Often material conditions or changes have the biggest influence, though not solely.
Woodward further suggests ‘representation’ as a key area of study and consideration, came to the fore after ‘ideologies’ were moved away from in the late 1970’s; a question arises, is that due the Tories winning the election under Thatcher at the same time the collapse of Communism (Stalinism) in East Germany and the move rightwards of the Labour Party? Did academics, along with huge swathes of the population and particularly politicians feel that socialism was not a solution? Or that economic determinism, which was often preached without a dialectical relationship to complex ideas and experiences by some Marxists, was thus an insufficient theoretical tools to analyse and make use of in these circumstances? Perhaps.
COLLABERATION
To add further visual layers, we requested photographs from Dave Sinclair who was one of the few photographers of the time who had access to most of the events and people. Dave is a paid photographer but has given us access to a huge archive of photographs and his personal memories around them, for no cost. It would have cost around £80 per shot for 5-second usage (£1000 approximately for us). I have offered to do work in lieu for him but he has declined, for him and his beliefs this collection need to be shared more widely. His online collection assisted in us accessing his work and making choices as well as displaying this in the installations. (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dave_sinclair_liverpool_photos/sets/72157603820320816/)
The texture, layers and composition of his work add hugely to the piece both in terms of aesthetics but also integrity of someone there. They are black and white and that feature very much encourages the audience into looking back. They also begin to show who else was involved at the time, which was a much wider grouping of people than those interviewed, or those who were councillors and that is hugely important as it is also about the representation of the participation and democratisation of the city & wider movement in that period.
In addition to the photographs from Dave Sinclair, I approached Suzanne Muna, a housing trade unionist & socialist, who was also suspended by Unison nationally for a cartoon leaflet she created for a conference which was challenging the leadership for not allowing some resolutions onto the agenda for conference to hear and debate. Suzanne is also an artist, though decided many years ago not to be paid for any of her work, as she told me that would compromise her. Her work was chosen after seeing it for many years and getting to know some of what she and 3 others went through in that particular union. Photographs of her collection are online which are moving and human collection. Being online made it easier for us to choose the work in advance and discuss how it could fit in as all three of us had competing priorities.
(http://www.squashdonkey.co.uk/artworksalist.htm)
The union theme developed after meeting with her to see the originals and also discuss elements of the installation that some had seen and many had not. One item I had left in the room was a union mug, which had a moulding dirty teabag, obviously important at a point but had now become something that was decaying and not allowing the mug to be used as it could or should be, a critique of several trade unions at the present time most of which have strong financial and affiliations to the Labour Party.
Her work is multimedia, created with low cost materials and includes newspaper quotes, an ongoing critique of the mass media. It is deeply critical of the current capitalist system and the way that operates, whilst also suggesting alternatives. Suzanne's work add a dual purpose and role, aesthetically but also in her as human spirit and fighting actions.
With the aim to provide a more uplifting experience for the subjects and audiences, the final question I asked of interviews, what did you get from being involved? This was in order to end the interviews positively and with some reflection on personal and collective gains to create a layer or possibility of what happens when someone gets involved in a dispute or movement. Most interviewees reflected on the process as uplifting and enjoyable. I did want not want to ‘take from them’, without facilitating some positive reflections to end with.
On a recent visit to the TATE Modern (May 15th 2011) I looked at one photographic exhibition called ‘BURKE & NORFOLK’ in Afghanistan. My initial reaction was distaste at the ‘prettiness’ of the images, the brightness, luscious colours, lack of visual ideas that reflected what was and has gone on. This led me to watch a video accompanying the exhibition where he argued that beauty was a tactic, ‘people are tricked into engaging”. (TATE: May 2011) The conscious tactic he used chills me, not only as something disingenuous and frankly limiting his expectations of an audience. Was I, were we, trying to make pretty something that had within it the huge forces of the state and internal collusion with personalised memories?
REFLEXIVITY & Circle of evaluation & feedback
One part of the ongoing evaluation of the process and production was to work within the AHS Digital gallery, perfectly positioned at the main entrance of one of the largest university buildings. I purposefully stayed in space 4-7 hours a day to explore space, experiment with additional work, continue project, meet collaborators, invite people in and chat. This is an important part of process to be there, observe, engage, discuss, expose self and work. In addition a presentation to cultural memory students supported this process. (APPENDIX 2)
The presentation & discussion process assisted bringing to air the ideas around public and private memory and what that might mean to an individual or society. Silverstone (1999 pg48) argues, ‘with the decline of oral culture we no longer need, ourselves, collectively to remember.” And that, ‘the media have the power to define the past’. (Silverstone: 1999:48).
This could hold some truth of how the written word is valued, its solidity, fixed, exchangeable, and sellable. The oral process less fixed and but clearly the tradition does continue. Just in terms of political and trade union activity I am involved in weekly meets between once to five times a week. These are important to women, though I regularly observe they are more at ease in a conversation or in the action of doing than the saying, so many men continue to dominate the spaces. I now purposefully try to contribute but in my own style, and with observations and experiences and possible suggestions, to show that it also ok without huge vocabulary or the ability to recall related historical events. I have, though, also continued to use a blog, as an archive and a small memory for me, as I have a very poor working memory, which impacts on an ability to recall information short term and requires multiple approaches to learning and engagement for ideas and facts to imprint themselves. Hand in hand, I attempt to develop a memory but also work without one.
TECHNOLOGY
The opportunity to film, edit and research this project has much been made easier, with the use of lower cost technology. It does not, however, determine the content of the work, or the ability to use the technology that requires critical consideration, technical learning, reflection and practice. The issue of distribution is still commercially restrictive though some models of distributing campaign documentaries have developed such as Mclibel that used a campaign model that could suit this work.
Without us needing or demanding for something, we might not have the technologies or know what to do with them. As Marx is quoted in Lister et Al, ‘They are organs of the brain, created by the human hand’. Lister et Al (2003 pg 191)
Only one piece of quirky, music has been chosen, so far, (royalty free) to have some lighter, warmer, lift for the audience. With the overall intention to express some processes and open up the possibility of ways of participating or leading struggles for democratic and fairer way of living and acting within this world, whilst not leaving them paralysed by the burden of the past.
I’ll be honest and say I am not completely happy with what I have done so far, it’s fighting within forms but it is a work in progress. And on reflection, I rarely like anything I create, though I love the work of those I collaborate with, I just know I need to do it!
So What Next? (In summary)
1. Review structure and missing content with collaborator and also subjects. Share feedback made so far and discuss suggestion. From that decide on cutaways list and shot list to add more moving images to the work and several visual motifs.
2. Look at more music for soundtrack and discuss with others to look for a composer for all. (Mainstream work would generally cost?)
3. Create a distribution strategy and timeline.
4. Review the budget and look at a fundraising model and strategy to resource the project.
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Lewis, H (1990) Dada turns Red, Edinborough, Edinborough Press
Benjamin, W (1977) Author as Producer
Nichols, B (2001) “What types of documentaries are there? in An Introduction to Documentary. Boomington Ind, Indiana University Press
Orwell, G. (1984) Why I write, London, Penguin.
Pryluck, C (2005) “Ultimately we are all outsiders: The ethics of documentary filmmaking” in Rosenthal, A & J Corner (eds). New Challenges for Documentary (2nd Edition), Manchester: Manchester University Press.
Rabinger, M (1997) Directing techniques and aesthetics Massachusetts Focal press
Silverstone R (1999) Why study the media? London, Sage
Taaffee, P & Mulhern T. (1988) Liverpool a city that dared to fight, London, Fortress.
Woodward (1997) ‘Concepts of Identity & Difference’, in K Woodward (ed.) Identity & Difference. London Sage
Martin Lister. Jon Dovey, Seth Giddings, Iain Grant & Kieran Kelly (2003) New Media: A Critical Introduction. London. Rutledge
Williams, G (2010) Shafted: The Media, The Miners Strike & the aftermath London, Campaign for Press and Broadcasting Freedom
Films
Vogel, K (2011) Burke and Norfolk, video loop. Tate Modern, London
Exhibition
Tate Modern – Burke & Norfolk: Photographs from the war in Afghanistan May 2011
Websites
Luxonline.org.uk/themes/documentary.html (19.5.2011)
http://www.flickr.com/photos/dave_sinclair_liverpool_photos/sets/72157603820320816/(Last accessed 23.5.2011)
http://www.squashdonkey.co.uk/artworksalist.htm (last accessed 23.5.2011)
ORAL?
In additional I have attended meetings of trade unionists, anti cuts campaigners, socialists 2-6 times a week that are part of the huge and ongoing oral process of exchanging ideas and develop process. I could not begin to name and note which ones have influenced this work but the combination of them all and the ongoing need for collective discussions and actions to make change.
APPENDIX 1: WAPPING
In 1986 Murdoch, the owner of several main stream newspapers planned to secretly change the location of the press to Wapping, over 5,000 jobs were to be lost in this change but it also changed and continued to determinate the potential for a democratic press and important trade union branch … It was London based dispute with a strong trade union membership, though some trade union leaders and unions choose to hold back the dispute with the EEPTU members took the jobs in the new plant. Eric Hammond the then leader of the EEPTU is said to have “boasted in his autobiography of his extensive liaison and collaboration’ (Exhibition programme: 2011:18)
The dispute and the need of those who were involved, several who were at the exhibition on the day I attended, wanted more people to know about what happened, and lots of discussions took place. The venue itself was full to bursting with banners, papers, write-ups, posters and some older merchandise for sale.
APPENDIX 2:
A selection of the feedback given:
Unsure it was past till part way through
Good to have visuals, helped memory
Good not just to have mainstream archives, ‘This is more powerful, people involved’
Against representation of mad left
Is there something about Liverpool? Community?
Was intention to rep history another way?
Why H&S shots of interviews? Why are you not there?
Consider Neil Kinnock for interview?
Who owns the work and uses it?
Could see a version like Dagenham Girls, mainstreamed
How this has come about – process of production cheaper, social media for marketing?
Begin with mass mediated story,
Liked music – massive attack 1980’s
Is it an installation or film?
It reminds me of that time, I was there..
If not completed soon, it will be out of time, relevance?
I see it as your process, the past and then this wall
Introduction confusing
Like the water in the intro
Emotion elements more engaging – possible hook to start
Monday, 11 July 2011
Friday, 1 July 2011
NSSN Bulletin - Striking together (1st July)
Yesterday was an amazing day for the fight-back against pension cuts and
beyond! A demonstration of what can be achieved when the unions move into
action!
There were picket lines, lunch time rallies, walkouts, occupations and support
from unions not even officially on strike but desperate to be involved in some
way, despite the vile and vicious propaganda from the government & media, &
sadly those you would hope to gain support from. Mary Bousted, general
secretary of the ATL, won the biggest cheer at a rally yesterday with: "The
response of Ed Miliband has been a disgrace – he should be ashamed of
himself. If our strike is a mistake, what has he done to oppose this
devastating attack on our pensions? If the Opposition will not defend our
pensions, we will."
You would think from looking at most of the main stream press this we are not
supported or that very little happened, but to be honest it impossible for us
to report the all of the details in one bulletin! In terms of demonstrations
there were: 4,000 Brighton, 5,000 Birmingham, Manchester & Bristol, 3,000
Liverpool, 500 Ipswich, 800 Cardiff, Exeter & Truro, 300 Chester & York, 1,000
Glasgow, Southampton & Hull, 200 Southend, 600 Preston, 1500 Cambridge, 350
Reading, 550 Plymouth, 400 Doncaster, 100 Lincoln, 200 Derby, 700 Norwich,
30,000 London & many many more! More area reports will be added to the website
over the next week, please send in yours & details of follow up meetings &
actions.
In some areas the NSSN joined forces with local unions to organise demos and
rallies. Outside Central Hall Westminster NSSN speakers addressed the overflow
crowd. With a one –day warning shot across the bows of this millionaire
coalition government, now is the time to prepare to step up the fight.
Thousands of our leaflets, bulletins and postcards were given out; placards
were held high. Our message to develop a general strike was welcomed &
supported. Tomorrow the new NSSN Steering Committee will be making an
assessment of yesterdays action and discussing a lobby of the TUC on September
11th in London in order to help ratchet up the pressure on these leaders to
follow up the March 26th demo with bigger joint strike action in the autumn.
We would encourage unions, campaign groups etc to follow up meetings of what
next, if you have visited a new workplaces then re-visit and develop union and
community actions for the future. If you were not on strike this time, look at
how your union and workplace can take part in the future, invite a local
striker & donate to the hardship funds.
Over the last 5 months we have been involved in a huge amount of work,
organising & speaking union meetings & conferences, anti cuts campaigns and
organising events and publishing different leaflets, stickers & cards. The cost
of this work adds up and we are in much need of finances right now! Please
could you consider donating by affiliating individually or via your trades
council or union. £5 per individual or £25 minimum for branches and local
trades councils. Online: http://www.stopcuts.net/affiliate.htm or cheques made
payable to 'National Shop Stewards Network’ NSSN PO Box 54498, London E10 9DE
DISPUTES:
UCU London Southbank University took strike action to defend pay and conditions
29th June. Lobby Board of governors 14th July.
http://www.shopstewards.net/news.113.htm
RMT Strike ballot on First Devon and Cornwall for strike action and action
short of a strike in a dispute over the axing of essential staff transport.
http://www.rmt.org.uk/Templates/Internal.asp?NodeID=146966
UNITE to ballot workers for strike action at Centrica (Hull) over pay
http://tinyurl.com/67d4sf8
NHS UPDATE: http://www.stopcuts.net/news.51.htm
DATES FOR THE DIARY
Sat 2nd July Bournemouth & Poole Anticuts Coalition
10:15am Broadstone Library, 10 Story Lane, Poole, Dorset BH18
info@bpacc.net
North Tyneside Public Services Alliance
11am North Tyneside General Hospital, North Shields NE29
l.nelson@unison.co.uk
6:30pm Birmingham Against the Cuts open planning meeting, Unison Offices, 19th
Floor McClaren Building. B4 Planning meeting
Mon 4th
Save the Accord Centre, Parkhead Forge Shopping Centre, Duke Entrance 3pm
Tues 5th
5pm-6: 30pm Disabled People Against the Cuts (DPAC) Lobby of council house
meeting.
Other celebrations & protests as part of the campaign to save the NHS on its
birthday will take place in Stoke, Preston, Manchester, Birmingham,
Wolverhampton, South Tyneside, Bradford, London & South Sea, & more!
Wed 6th
7.30pm Brighton Stop the Cuts, King & Queen
7:30pm Handsworth Anti-Cuts Group public meeting, St Andrews Sports and
Community Centre
Thur 7th July
12 – Manchester Central Conf Centre, M2
Protest outside the NHS Confederation National Conference with Langsley
speaking! https://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=101668313261415
7:30pm – Birmingham TUC meeting - rooms 3&4, Council House, B1
Fri 9th
Save Our NHS Day of Action. Nottingham SOS nottssos+doa@gmail.com
11th Sep – NSSN lobby TUC to actively develop national action against the
cuts! https://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=222515987782045
Joint meeting of London NSSN, RMT, CWU, FBU - Trade Unions battle ConDem cuts:
Mon 18th 6pm Indian YMCA, 41 Fitzroy Square, W1T
Some of the strongest & most militant unions in London will come together to
discuss what we can do now to help get all our unions up for concerted action
to stop ALL cuts.
http://www.shopstewards.net/news.110.htm
JOIN AFFILIATE & GET INVOLVED
Email: info@shopstewards.net
Phone: 07952 283 558
http://www.shopstewards.net/index.htm
beyond! A demonstration of what can be achieved when the unions move into
action!
There were picket lines, lunch time rallies, walkouts, occupations and support
from unions not even officially on strike but desperate to be involved in some
way, despite the vile and vicious propaganda from the government & media, &
sadly those you would hope to gain support from. Mary Bousted, general
secretary of the ATL, won the biggest cheer at a rally yesterday with: "The
response of Ed Miliband has been a disgrace – he should be ashamed of
himself. If our strike is a mistake, what has he done to oppose this
devastating attack on our pensions? If the Opposition will not defend our
pensions, we will."
You would think from looking at most of the main stream press this we are not
supported or that very little happened, but to be honest it impossible for us
to report the all of the details in one bulletin! In terms of demonstrations
there were: 4,000 Brighton, 5,000 Birmingham, Manchester & Bristol, 3,000
Liverpool, 500 Ipswich, 800 Cardiff, Exeter & Truro, 300 Chester & York, 1,000
Glasgow, Southampton & Hull, 200 Southend, 600 Preston, 1500 Cambridge, 350
Reading, 550 Plymouth, 400 Doncaster, 100 Lincoln, 200 Derby, 700 Norwich,
30,000 London & many many more! More area reports will be added to the website
over the next week, please send in yours & details of follow up meetings &
actions.
In some areas the NSSN joined forces with local unions to organise demos and
rallies. Outside Central Hall Westminster NSSN speakers addressed the overflow
crowd. With a one –day warning shot across the bows of this millionaire
coalition government, now is the time to prepare to step up the fight.
Thousands of our leaflets, bulletins and postcards were given out; placards
were held high. Our message to develop a general strike was welcomed &
supported. Tomorrow the new NSSN Steering Committee will be making an
assessment of yesterdays action and discussing a lobby of the TUC on September
11th in London in order to help ratchet up the pressure on these leaders to
follow up the March 26th demo with bigger joint strike action in the autumn.
We would encourage unions, campaign groups etc to follow up meetings of what
next, if you have visited a new workplaces then re-visit and develop union and
community actions for the future. If you were not on strike this time, look at
how your union and workplace can take part in the future, invite a local
striker & donate to the hardship funds.
Over the last 5 months we have been involved in a huge amount of work,
organising & speaking union meetings & conferences, anti cuts campaigns and
organising events and publishing different leaflets, stickers & cards. The cost
of this work adds up and we are in much need of finances right now! Please
could you consider donating by affiliating individually or via your trades
council or union. £5 per individual or £25 minimum for branches and local
trades councils. Online: http://www.stopcuts.net/affiliate.htm or cheques made
payable to 'National Shop Stewards Network’ NSSN PO Box 54498, London E10 9DE
DISPUTES:
UCU London Southbank University took strike action to defend pay and conditions
29th June. Lobby Board of governors 14th July.
http://www.shopstewards.net/news.113.htm
RMT Strike ballot on First Devon and Cornwall for strike action and action
short of a strike in a dispute over the axing of essential staff transport.
http://www.rmt.org.uk/Templates/Internal.asp?NodeID=146966
UNITE to ballot workers for strike action at Centrica (Hull) over pay
http://tinyurl.com/67d4sf8
NHS UPDATE: http://www.stopcuts.net/news.51.htm
DATES FOR THE DIARY
Sat 2nd July Bournemouth & Poole Anticuts Coalition
10:15am Broadstone Library, 10 Story Lane, Poole, Dorset BH18
info@bpacc.net
North Tyneside Public Services Alliance
11am North Tyneside General Hospital, North Shields NE29
l.nelson@unison.co.uk
6:30pm Birmingham Against the Cuts open planning meeting, Unison Offices, 19th
Floor McClaren Building. B4 Planning meeting
Mon 4th
Save the Accord Centre, Parkhead Forge Shopping Centre, Duke Entrance 3pm
Tues 5th
5pm-6: 30pm Disabled People Against the Cuts (DPAC) Lobby of council house
meeting.
Other celebrations & protests as part of the campaign to save the NHS on its
birthday will take place in Stoke, Preston, Manchester, Birmingham,
Wolverhampton, South Tyneside, Bradford, London & South Sea, & more!
Wed 6th
7.30pm Brighton Stop the Cuts, King & Queen
7:30pm Handsworth Anti-Cuts Group public meeting, St Andrews Sports and
Community Centre
Thur 7th July
12 – Manchester Central Conf Centre, M2
Protest outside the NHS Confederation National Conference with Langsley
speaking! https://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=101668313261415
7:30pm – Birmingham TUC meeting - rooms 3&4, Council House, B1
Fri 9th
Save Our NHS Day of Action. Nottingham SOS nottssos+doa@gmail.com
11th Sep – NSSN lobby TUC to actively develop national action against the
cuts! https://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=222515987782045
Joint meeting of London NSSN, RMT, CWU, FBU - Trade Unions battle ConDem cuts:
Mon 18th 6pm Indian YMCA, 41 Fitzroy Square, W1T
Some of the strongest & most militant unions in London will come together to
discuss what we can do now to help get all our unions up for concerted action
to stop ALL cuts.
http://www.shopstewards.net/news.110.htm
JOIN AFFILIATE & GET INVOLVED
Email: info@shopstewards.net
Phone: 07952 283 558
http://www.shopstewards.net/index.htm
Friday, 24 June 2011
NSSN 45 - Nothing unaffordable about public sector pensions
‘There is nothing unaffordable about public sector Pensions”, wrote the
Torygraph earlier this week. Well yes they would know, given the huge and
obscene pensions and bonuses those who have caused the economic crisis in the
country have accepted, and continue to take, whilst expecting us to pay for the
mess. If this government gets away with it, millions of public sector workers
will pay in more to their pensions, to get less out and to wait longer to get
it - all to pay for a crisis caused by the bankers!
Also, the current pensions proposals plan to steal another £2.8 billion from
us pushing 3.5 million pensioners into fuel poverty. This is totally
unacceptable; we already have 2.5 million pensioners who cannot afford to
adequately heat their homes. Is that the kind of society we want to bring our
next generations into? Is that what we want for those who have contributed to
our lives, work and of building the very homes and hospitals we use and live
in? We don’t want or need further cut backs, but a better distribution of
our collective wealth, which a tiny, tiny minority sucks up. And they call us
irresponsible!
On Thursday 30th of June, there is an important opportunity to take a stand and
strike as just under a million workers who have been balloted so far, will be
taking action. This is the first National co-ordinated strike action against
this government.
Sadly the largest public sector union, Unison is not taking part nationally in
this but has agreed at this weeks conferences that they will prepare for
co-ordinated action, as many of its members asked why aren’t we on strike on
the 30th. This should lead to another national strike in the Autumn - in the
words of PCS general secretary Mark Serwotka "to turn 750,000 on strike on June
30th into 4 million." NSSN supporters will be giving out our leaflet on June
30th calling for a 24-hour public sector general strike. You can download it
from our website or email us to get copies.
If your union is on strike - what can you do?
Hopefully you will have discussed this with your reps & officials, to set up
picket lines, leaflet and recruit new members, get inactive members involved,
discuss with other local unions for support and solidarity. Join/set up local
and regional marches to show this government that we will not accept this and
more importantly show each other, and those not yet on strike, there is an
alternative to the ‘cuts’. If you need any assistance or some material let
us know.
If your union is not on strike - what could you do?
Attend picket lines of those on strike
Send messages of support
Donate to the respective hardship funds
Assist in organizing locally; get your workmates, family, and friends to attend
Arrange meetings for after the 30th – what next
Move a resolution in your next union branch meeting calling on your union to
ballot for strike action and urging them to co-ordinate the action with the
other unions. Also, support the NSSN lobby of the TUC on September 11th in
London calling for co-ordinated action across the unions
Not in a union or workplace?
You might want to take part in walkouts or local protests with others.
For those not in work link up with strikers through your anti cuts campaigns,
share information, consider what actions you could take. Join the picket lines
and the local rally’s and marches. Students will also be looking to walk out
and support picket lines.
Support and visits to picket lines is most welcome as the con-dems try to
divide us!
STRIKES & DISPUTES
Two bits of Good news for RMT, Arywn Thomas has won the ET against unfair
dismissal and has now been reinstated! Workers on the Heathrow express have
suspended strike action following a better offer. Congratulations to all those
who were involved and took action.
We would also like to congratulate UCU members will also be celebrating as UCU
Wales Vice President has had his disciplinary action withdrawn after members
took unofficial action furious at the actions.
http://www.shopstewards.net/news.98.htm
Earlier this week 34 cleaners took part in 2 days of strike action in protest
over unpaid wages from Ocean in the city of London.
SOUTHAMPTON City Council Unison & Unite workers strike against cuts in jobs,
conditions and services continues as talks failed at ACAS. Workers will be
striking on the 30th of June to link up their issues with those nationally.
http://www.soton-unison-office.org.uk/newsletters.htm
http://southamptonanticuts.wordpress.com/
Birmingham Unison announced it would also be on strike on the 30th of June
given the £300 million cuts budget with over 37% to be cut by 2015.
http://www.birminghamunison.co.uk/
http://birminghamagainstthecuts.wordpress.com/2011/06/22/mass-strikes-in-birmingham-on-30th-june/
NUJ Newsquest in south London will begin 4 day strike 27th – midnight 30th
June over redundancies.
Leeds Council UNISON will join GMB balloting over proposals for cutting up to
3,000 jobs over 4 years
NUT Forest Hill School took first day of strike action against compulsorily
redundancies.
DATES FOR THE DIARY
Sat 25th
Hampshire Stop the cuts & Hampshire Assoc of Trades Councils demo 11am
Oram’s Arbour, Clifton Road. Linking up the ongoing council strikes of Unite
& Unison members with Medirest .
Lewes March for the NHS 10.30
Nevill Green, BN7
Nuneaton Against the Cuts 10.30 meet outside specsavers for campaign activity.
Tues 28th - RMT demonstration outside Liverpool’s BT Conference Centre 08.30
Sir Roy McNulty the architect of the Governments “Rail Review” carve-up -
will be addressing a major railway industry conference.
THURS 30th JUNE – NATIONAL STRIKE Action against pension cuts!
Just a few rallies & marches on the strike day:
Aberystwyth Rally 12 Morian Centre, Queens Rd
Bangor 2 Meifod Hotel
Barnsley 9.45 March to Parkway Cinema
Birmingham at 12 Victoria Square
Bedford 10 Civic Centre
Bradford 10 Valley Parad Ground
Brighton 10.30 The level (opposite open market)
Bristol 11 College Green
Calerdale 10 Arden Rd, Social Club
Canterbury 10-2 Abbots Barton Hotel
Camberley 1pm Camberley station march. 2pm Rally@Theatre
Cambridge 12 Parkers pierce
Carlisle 12.30 Old Town Hall
Cardiff 11 Cathays Park & 12.15 Canton Bridge
Ceredigion 12 Morian Centre
Chatham 12.30 Command House, ME4
Chelmsford 11 High St
Chester 12.30 town hall
Chippenham 11 Town Hall
Colchester 12.30 Town Hall
Derbyshire 10.30 Market Hall Chesterfield
Doncaster 9.30 Council house, College rd
Dorchester 9.30 County hall
Dover 12 St Mary’s Church
Exeter 11 Corn Exchange
Glasgow 12 George Sq
Gloucester 10.30 Gloucester Park
Gravesham 9.30 Three Daws Pub DA11
Gwynedd Mefild 2 Hotel Bontnewydd
Halifax 10 Arden Social Club
Hastings 10.30 White rock hotel
Hertfordshire 10.30 Campus West, Uni
Huddersfield 10 St Pats Irish centre 12-12.30 rally Market X, HD1
Hull 10am Royal Hotel
Isle of Wight 10 St Georges Football PO30
Ipswich 10.45 Giles Circus, Princes Circus
Kirklees 10 St Patricks Centre
Lancaster 11 Market Sq
Llandrindod Wells 11am Pavilion, Spa Rd
Lincoln 1 Stags Head
Liverpool 11.30 William Brown St
Leicester 12 Victoria Park
Leeds 12 City Square
London 11 Lincoln Fields
Luton 12 Market Hill
Manchester 11 All Saints
Maidenhead 11-2 Walnut Tree & 4pm Outside County Hall
Maidstone 11 Village Hotel, ME14
Merthyr Tydfil 12.30 Civic Centre
Middleborough 4.30 Bottle sculpture
Milton Keynes 12 Campbell Park
Newcastle 12 Life Centre
Newbury 10 St Nicholas Church Hall
Newport 12 John Forest Sq
Norfolk 12 Outside Forum NR2
Norwich Noon Forum Amphitheatre
Northampton 12.30 Guildhall
Nottingham 11 Forest Recreation March to Albert Hall for rally
Oxford Noon Bonn Square 1.30 March
Peterborough 10am
Plymouth 10.30 Albion Rugby Club
Portsmouth 12 Guildhall, PO1
Preston 12 Flag Market
Powys 10.30 The Pavilion
Reading 11am RISC, London St, RG1
Rotherham 11am All saints Sq
Sheffield 12 Barker’s Pool to City Hall
Sheffield 11 Peace gardens to City Hall
Sittingbourne 11 Phoenix house, Central Av
Slough Queensmere Centre
Somerset 10 Taunton Rugby Club
Southampton 11 Guildhall
Southend 12.30 Victoria Circus
Staffordshire 11.30 Reardons, Adventure Place ST1
Swansea 11.30 Castle Sq
Swindon 10 Outside Swindon Library
Taunton 11 Rugby club
Telford 12 Southgate
Truro 1-1pm Lemon Quay
Wakefield 10 Outside Cathedral
Welwyn 10.30 Campus West, Roller City
Wembley 10 Torch Pub
Wigan 11-1 Market Place
Wolverhampton 10.45 Metro One
Worcester 11 St Peters Baptist Centre
Worthing 11 Steyne Gdns, BN11
Wrexham 11.30 Queens Sq
York 11.30 Parliament St & 4pm lobby Council
Tues 5th July East London NSSN – ‘All out together’ 7pm
Durning hall Community Centre, Earlham Grove E7
Join – Affiliate – Get involved!
info@shopstewards.net
http://www.shopstewards.net/
Torygraph earlier this week. Well yes they would know, given the huge and
obscene pensions and bonuses those who have caused the economic crisis in the
country have accepted, and continue to take, whilst expecting us to pay for the
mess. If this government gets away with it, millions of public sector workers
will pay in more to their pensions, to get less out and to wait longer to get
it - all to pay for a crisis caused by the bankers!
Also, the current pensions proposals plan to steal another £2.8 billion from
us pushing 3.5 million pensioners into fuel poverty. This is totally
unacceptable; we already have 2.5 million pensioners who cannot afford to
adequately heat their homes. Is that the kind of society we want to bring our
next generations into? Is that what we want for those who have contributed to
our lives, work and of building the very homes and hospitals we use and live
in? We don’t want or need further cut backs, but a better distribution of
our collective wealth, which a tiny, tiny minority sucks up. And they call us
irresponsible!
On Thursday 30th of June, there is an important opportunity to take a stand and
strike as just under a million workers who have been balloted so far, will be
taking action. This is the first National co-ordinated strike action against
this government.
Sadly the largest public sector union, Unison is not taking part nationally in
this but has agreed at this weeks conferences that they will prepare for
co-ordinated action, as many of its members asked why aren’t we on strike on
the 30th. This should lead to another national strike in the Autumn - in the
words of PCS general secretary Mark Serwotka "to turn 750,000 on strike on June
30th into 4 million." NSSN supporters will be giving out our leaflet on June
30th calling for a 24-hour public sector general strike. You can download it
from our website or email us to get copies.
If your union is on strike - what can you do?
Hopefully you will have discussed this with your reps & officials, to set up
picket lines, leaflet and recruit new members, get inactive members involved,
discuss with other local unions for support and solidarity. Join/set up local
and regional marches to show this government that we will not accept this and
more importantly show each other, and those not yet on strike, there is an
alternative to the ‘cuts’. If you need any assistance or some material let
us know.
If your union is not on strike - what could you do?
Attend picket lines of those on strike
Send messages of support
Donate to the respective hardship funds
Assist in organizing locally; get your workmates, family, and friends to attend
Arrange meetings for after the 30th – what next
Move a resolution in your next union branch meeting calling on your union to
ballot for strike action and urging them to co-ordinate the action with the
other unions. Also, support the NSSN lobby of the TUC on September 11th in
London calling for co-ordinated action across the unions
Not in a union or workplace?
You might want to take part in walkouts or local protests with others.
For those not in work link up with strikers through your anti cuts campaigns,
share information, consider what actions you could take. Join the picket lines
and the local rally’s and marches. Students will also be looking to walk out
and support picket lines.
Support and visits to picket lines is most welcome as the con-dems try to
divide us!
STRIKES & DISPUTES
Two bits of Good news for RMT, Arywn Thomas has won the ET against unfair
dismissal and has now been reinstated! Workers on the Heathrow express have
suspended strike action following a better offer. Congratulations to all those
who were involved and took action.
We would also like to congratulate UCU members will also be celebrating as UCU
Wales Vice President has had his disciplinary action withdrawn after members
took unofficial action furious at the actions.
http://www.shopstewards.net/news.98.htm
Earlier this week 34 cleaners took part in 2 days of strike action in protest
over unpaid wages from Ocean in the city of London.
SOUTHAMPTON City Council Unison & Unite workers strike against cuts in jobs,
conditions and services continues as talks failed at ACAS. Workers will be
striking on the 30th of June to link up their issues with those nationally.
http://www.soton-unison-office.org.uk/newsletters.htm
http://southamptonanticuts.wordpress.com/
Birmingham Unison announced it would also be on strike on the 30th of June
given the £300 million cuts budget with over 37% to be cut by 2015.
http://www.birminghamunison.co.uk/
http://birminghamagainstthecuts.wordpress.com/2011/06/22/mass-strikes-in-birmingham-on-30th-june/
NUJ Newsquest in south London will begin 4 day strike 27th – midnight 30th
June over redundancies.
Leeds Council UNISON will join GMB balloting over proposals for cutting up to
3,000 jobs over 4 years
NUT Forest Hill School took first day of strike action against compulsorily
redundancies.
DATES FOR THE DIARY
Sat 25th
Hampshire Stop the cuts & Hampshire Assoc of Trades Councils demo 11am
Oram’s Arbour, Clifton Road. Linking up the ongoing council strikes of Unite
& Unison members with Medirest .
Lewes March for the NHS 10.30
Nevill Green, BN7
Nuneaton Against the Cuts 10.30 meet outside specsavers for campaign activity.
Tues 28th - RMT demonstration outside Liverpool’s BT Conference Centre 08.30
Sir Roy McNulty the architect of the Governments “Rail Review” carve-up -
will be addressing a major railway industry conference.
THURS 30th JUNE – NATIONAL STRIKE Action against pension cuts!
Just a few rallies & marches on the strike day:
Aberystwyth Rally 12 Morian Centre, Queens Rd
Bangor 2 Meifod Hotel
Barnsley 9.45 March to Parkway Cinema
Birmingham at 12 Victoria Square
Bedford 10 Civic Centre
Bradford 10 Valley Parad Ground
Brighton 10.30 The level (opposite open market)
Bristol 11 College Green
Calerdale 10 Arden Rd, Social Club
Canterbury 10-2 Abbots Barton Hotel
Camberley 1pm Camberley station march. 2pm Rally@Theatre
Cambridge 12 Parkers pierce
Carlisle 12.30 Old Town Hall
Cardiff 11 Cathays Park & 12.15 Canton Bridge
Ceredigion 12 Morian Centre
Chatham 12.30 Command House, ME4
Chelmsford 11 High St
Chester 12.30 town hall
Chippenham 11 Town Hall
Colchester 12.30 Town Hall
Derbyshire 10.30 Market Hall Chesterfield
Doncaster 9.30 Council house, College rd
Dorchester 9.30 County hall
Dover 12 St Mary’s Church
Exeter 11 Corn Exchange
Glasgow 12 George Sq
Gloucester 10.30 Gloucester Park
Gravesham 9.30 Three Daws Pub DA11
Gwynedd Mefild 2 Hotel Bontnewydd
Halifax 10 Arden Social Club
Hastings 10.30 White rock hotel
Hertfordshire 10.30 Campus West, Uni
Huddersfield 10 St Pats Irish centre 12-12.30 rally Market X, HD1
Hull 10am Royal Hotel
Isle of Wight 10 St Georges Football PO30
Ipswich 10.45 Giles Circus, Princes Circus
Kirklees 10 St Patricks Centre
Lancaster 11 Market Sq
Llandrindod Wells 11am Pavilion, Spa Rd
Lincoln 1 Stags Head
Liverpool 11.30 William Brown St
Leicester 12 Victoria Park
Leeds 12 City Square
London 11 Lincoln Fields
Luton 12 Market Hill
Manchester 11 All Saints
Maidenhead 11-2 Walnut Tree & 4pm Outside County Hall
Maidstone 11 Village Hotel, ME14
Merthyr Tydfil 12.30 Civic Centre
Middleborough 4.30 Bottle sculpture
Milton Keynes 12 Campbell Park
Newcastle 12 Life Centre
Newbury 10 St Nicholas Church Hall
Newport 12 John Forest Sq
Norfolk 12 Outside Forum NR2
Norwich Noon Forum Amphitheatre
Northampton 12.30 Guildhall
Nottingham 11 Forest Recreation March to Albert Hall for rally
Oxford Noon Bonn Square 1.30 March
Peterborough 10am
Plymouth 10.30 Albion Rugby Club
Portsmouth 12 Guildhall, PO1
Preston 12 Flag Market
Powys 10.30 The Pavilion
Reading 11am RISC, London St, RG1
Rotherham 11am All saints Sq
Sheffield 12 Barker’s Pool to City Hall
Sheffield 11 Peace gardens to City Hall
Sittingbourne 11 Phoenix house, Central Av
Slough Queensmere Centre
Somerset 10 Taunton Rugby Club
Southampton 11 Guildhall
Southend 12.30 Victoria Circus
Staffordshire 11.30 Reardons, Adventure Place ST1
Swansea 11.30 Castle Sq
Swindon 10 Outside Swindon Library
Taunton 11 Rugby club
Telford 12 Southgate
Truro 1-1pm Lemon Quay
Wakefield 10 Outside Cathedral
Welwyn 10.30 Campus West, Roller City
Wembley 10 Torch Pub
Wigan 11-1 Market Place
Wolverhampton 10.45 Metro One
Worcester 11 St Peters Baptist Centre
Worthing 11 Steyne Gdns, BN11
Wrexham 11.30 Queens Sq
York 11.30 Parliament St & 4pm lobby Council
Tues 5th July East London NSSN – ‘All out together’ 7pm
Durning hall Community Centre, Earlham Grove E7
Join – Affiliate – Get involved!
info@shopstewards.net
http://www.shopstewards.net/
Friday, 17 June 2011
NO 44 Conference report & more
Results from the NUT, PCS and ATL ballots clearly show massive support for
strike action on the 30 June. ATL have never in the 100 odd years of being a
union taken strike action so their result is even more telling! It looks like a
sharpening mood against cuts and privatisation is developing. Under pressure
from his members, even Dave Prentis has stated that Unison will ballot for
strike action in the coming months!
As seven workers from Honda Swindon were leaving the National Shop Stewards
Network (NSSN) conference on Saturday 11 June, one car worker remarked: "I wish
we could have brought a coach-load!” This was a typical reaction amongst the
350 workers attending the best conference we’ve held so far, a regular event
that is rapidly becoming a feature in the calendar of the labour movement.
Alex Gordon, Rail, Maritime and Transport union (RMT) president, reminded
delegates about the biggest ever trade union demonstration that was held on 26
March, showing what the TUC can do when it lifts its little finger. He urged
that attendees don’t squander that energy. The correct conclusions about the
way forward needed be drawn out – primarily, a general strike is needed. The
£81 million of cuts so far are only year one of the Tory programme.
Conference gave a very warm reception to Les Woodward from GMB Remploy who
reported on disabled workers fighting cuts & he appealed to the
"temporarily-abled" for solidarity.
The ‘Right to Strike' theme of the afternoon session was recognition that
whilst we are preparing for mass action, the bosses are too. The
representatives of the rich and powerful are ready to introduce even more
draconian laws to restrict strikes.
Frank Morris described his blacklisting from the Olympics site. Tube drivers
Arwyn Thomas and Eamonn Lynch outlined how they were sacked for participating
in legal industrial action.
John Hancock from the Prison Officers Association (POA) national executive
explained that POA is banned from striking, but that pressure is building up to
break those restrictions, especially because of the drive for privatisation.
Keith Gibson, who spoke at the NSSN conference two years ago about the victory
of construction workers at Lindsay Oil Refinery against all odds, gave us, in
his bold inimitable style, a vivid account of a recent battle at Saltend, near
Hull, where 400 construction workers were locked out. Despite a willingness of
the workforce to fight, the battle was eventually lost, leaving many questions
being asked of some trade union officials.
This theme was taken up in the many contributions from the floor, including by
Unite convener Paddy Brennan, who appealed to NSSN for assistance with current
problems at Honda. Unison member Kathy Smith also spoke, she had stood for the
NEC seat of her union colleague who was suspended from office by the right wing
union leadership and won! FULL REPORT, Motions & great video:
http://www.shopstewards.net/news.94.htm
The conference also included a rousing and in depth speech by Apostolis
Kasimeris, one of the leaders of the OASA bus workers union in Athens. Workers
in Greece were taking part in their 8th General strike and with bus fare
boycotts that linked trade unionists with the community. He clearly connected
the situations across Europe and the role of the EU & IMF and how they were
still making money on the backs of the workers despite having caused the
economic crisis. Full speech: http://www.shopstewards.net/news.93.htm
The energy and commitment of those attending to take a lead in the strike
action against cuts on June 30th and develop a wider movement in the coming
months is moving across Europe was clear. We have always been in a class war
but now we begin to flex our collective strength!
Join us! Affiliate - ONLINE: http://www.stopcuts.net/affiliate.htm
STRIKES & DISPUTES
SOUTHAMPTON City Council Unison & Unite workers strike action is escalating
action over wage cuts with members. Cleaners at Southampton Hospital also took
strike action on the same days this week and joined with Council workers at the
March against cuts on the
13th.http://www.soton-unison-office.org.uk/newsletters.htm
http://southamptonanticuts.wordpress.com/
RMT- Despite strenuous efforts by RMT, LU have refused to reach an agreement
that would reinstate Arwyn Thomas despite his successful appeal for “interim
relief” for unfair dismissal at the Employment Tribunal on the grounds of his
trade union activities. Strike action begins this weekend: 9pm on Sunday 19th
June then again on 27th June 28th June, 29th June, and 1st July.
http://tinyurl.com/3sbr9e2
NUT Shorefields Liverpool will strike on the 21st over plans to become an
academy.
Unite Fujistu – Defend Alan Jenney Deputy Chair of Combine over unfair and
unnecessary redundancy. Ballot closes 23rd June. Messages of support
support@ourunion.org.uk http://www.shopstewards.net/news.92.htm
UCU COLEG MORGANNWG Management has initiated disciplinary action against Guy
Stoate, President of UCU Wales and NEC member. On the day the disciplinary
action was announced over members of UCU at the college held a spontaneous
rally in support of Guy. http://www.shopstewards.net/news.96.htm
Jacqui Thomspon campaigner in Save Panticelyn School was arrested for breaching
the peace as she filmed council meeting in Carmthen. http://tinyurl.com/6lctls9
http://carmarthenplanning.blogspot.com/
DATES FOR THE DIARY
Mon 20th Waltham Forest Trades Council & Antic Cuts group public meeting 7.30pm
Harmony Hall, Truro Road, E17
Tue 21st SERTUC public services Open Meeting report on supporting action on the
30th June - 1.00am-1.00pm in the Council Chamber, 5th Floor, TUC Congress
House, Great Russell Street, London WC1B
Wed 22nd March & Strike against the privatisation at London Met University.
Over 198 job cuts proposed. Assemble at 2:00pm at Highbury Fields t march to
London Met, Tower Building, and 166-220 Holloway Road. Organised by UNISON, UCU
& London Met NUS. Lobby of Board at 4pm.
THURS 30th JUNE – NATIONAL STRIKE Action against pension cuts!
http://tinyurl.com/6jc4neg
Birmingham at 12 Victoria Square.
Bradford 10 Valley Parad Ground
Brighton 10.30 The level
Bristol 11 College Green
Cambridge 12 Parkers pierce
Carlisle 12.30 Old Town Hall
Chatham Noon Command House
Chelmsford 11 High St
Colchester 12.30 Town Hall
Dover 12 St Mary’s Church
Exeter 11 Corn Exchange
Glasgow 12 George Sq
Gloucester 10.30 Gloucester Sq
Halifax 10 Arden Social Club
Hastings 10 White rock hotel
Liverpool 11.30 William Brown St
Leicester Victoria Park
Leeds 12 City Square
London 11 Lincoln Fields
Luton 12 Market Hill
Manchester 11 All Saints
Middleborough 4.30 Bottle sculpture
Newcastle 12 Life Centre
Norwich Noon Forum Amphitheatre
Nottingham Trent Square
Oxford 1 Bonn Square
Plymouth 1 Plymouth Town Hall
Portsmouth 12 Guildhall
Preston 12 Flag Market
Sheffield 12 Peace Gardens
Tauntan 11 Rugby club
Worthing 11 Steyne Gdns
Join – Affiliate – Get involved!
info@shopstewards.net
http://www.shopstewards.net/
strike action on the 30 June. ATL have never in the 100 odd years of being a
union taken strike action so their result is even more telling! It looks like a
sharpening mood against cuts and privatisation is developing. Under pressure
from his members, even Dave Prentis has stated that Unison will ballot for
strike action in the coming months!
As seven workers from Honda Swindon were leaving the National Shop Stewards
Network (NSSN) conference on Saturday 11 June, one car worker remarked: "I wish
we could have brought a coach-load!” This was a typical reaction amongst the
350 workers attending the best conference we’ve held so far, a regular event
that is rapidly becoming a feature in the calendar of the labour movement.
Alex Gordon, Rail, Maritime and Transport union (RMT) president, reminded
delegates about the biggest ever trade union demonstration that was held on 26
March, showing what the TUC can do when it lifts its little finger. He urged
that attendees don’t squander that energy. The correct conclusions about the
way forward needed be drawn out – primarily, a general strike is needed. The
£81 million of cuts so far are only year one of the Tory programme.
Conference gave a very warm reception to Les Woodward from GMB Remploy who
reported on disabled workers fighting cuts & he appealed to the
"temporarily-abled" for solidarity.
The ‘Right to Strike' theme of the afternoon session was recognition that
whilst we are preparing for mass action, the bosses are too. The
representatives of the rich and powerful are ready to introduce even more
draconian laws to restrict strikes.
Frank Morris described his blacklisting from the Olympics site. Tube drivers
Arwyn Thomas and Eamonn Lynch outlined how they were sacked for participating
in legal industrial action.
John Hancock from the Prison Officers Association (POA) national executive
explained that POA is banned from striking, but that pressure is building up to
break those restrictions, especially because of the drive for privatisation.
Keith Gibson, who spoke at the NSSN conference two years ago about the victory
of construction workers at Lindsay Oil Refinery against all odds, gave us, in
his bold inimitable style, a vivid account of a recent battle at Saltend, near
Hull, where 400 construction workers were locked out. Despite a willingness of
the workforce to fight, the battle was eventually lost, leaving many questions
being asked of some trade union officials.
This theme was taken up in the many contributions from the floor, including by
Unite convener Paddy Brennan, who appealed to NSSN for assistance with current
problems at Honda. Unison member Kathy Smith also spoke, she had stood for the
NEC seat of her union colleague who was suspended from office by the right wing
union leadership and won! FULL REPORT, Motions & great video:
http://www.shopstewards.net/news.94.htm
The conference also included a rousing and in depth speech by Apostolis
Kasimeris, one of the leaders of the OASA bus workers union in Athens. Workers
in Greece were taking part in their 8th General strike and with bus fare
boycotts that linked trade unionists with the community. He clearly connected
the situations across Europe and the role of the EU & IMF and how they were
still making money on the backs of the workers despite having caused the
economic crisis. Full speech: http://www.shopstewards.net/news.93.htm
The energy and commitment of those attending to take a lead in the strike
action against cuts on June 30th and develop a wider movement in the coming
months is moving across Europe was clear. We have always been in a class war
but now we begin to flex our collective strength!
Join us! Affiliate - ONLINE: http://www.stopcuts.net/affiliate.htm
STRIKES & DISPUTES
SOUTHAMPTON City Council Unison & Unite workers strike action is escalating
action over wage cuts with members. Cleaners at Southampton Hospital also took
strike action on the same days this week and joined with Council workers at the
March against cuts on the
13th.http://www.soton-unison-office.org.uk/newsletters.htm
http://southamptonanticuts.wordpress.com/
RMT- Despite strenuous efforts by RMT, LU have refused to reach an agreement
that would reinstate Arwyn Thomas despite his successful appeal for “interim
relief” for unfair dismissal at the Employment Tribunal on the grounds of his
trade union activities. Strike action begins this weekend: 9pm on Sunday 19th
June then again on 27th June 28th June, 29th June, and 1st July.
http://tinyurl.com/3sbr9e2
NUT Shorefields Liverpool will strike on the 21st over plans to become an
academy.
Unite Fujistu – Defend Alan Jenney Deputy Chair of Combine over unfair and
unnecessary redundancy. Ballot closes 23rd June. Messages of support
support@ourunion.org.uk http://www.shopstewards.net/news.92.htm
UCU COLEG MORGANNWG Management has initiated disciplinary action against Guy
Stoate, President of UCU Wales and NEC member. On the day the disciplinary
action was announced over members of UCU at the college held a spontaneous
rally in support of Guy. http://www.shopstewards.net/news.96.htm
Jacqui Thomspon campaigner in Save Panticelyn School was arrested for breaching
the peace as she filmed council meeting in Carmthen. http://tinyurl.com/6lctls9
http://carmarthenplanning.blogspot.com/
DATES FOR THE DIARY
Mon 20th Waltham Forest Trades Council & Antic Cuts group public meeting 7.30pm
Harmony Hall, Truro Road, E17
Tue 21st SERTUC public services Open Meeting report on supporting action on the
30th June - 1.00am-1.00pm in the Council Chamber, 5th Floor, TUC Congress
House, Great Russell Street, London WC1B
Wed 22nd March & Strike against the privatisation at London Met University.
Over 198 job cuts proposed. Assemble at 2:00pm at Highbury Fields t march to
London Met, Tower Building, and 166-220 Holloway Road. Organised by UNISON, UCU
& London Met NUS. Lobby of Board at 4pm.
THURS 30th JUNE – NATIONAL STRIKE Action against pension cuts!
http://tinyurl.com/6jc4neg
Birmingham at 12 Victoria Square.
Bradford 10 Valley Parad Ground
Brighton 10.30 The level
Bristol 11 College Green
Cambridge 12 Parkers pierce
Carlisle 12.30 Old Town Hall
Chatham Noon Command House
Chelmsford 11 High St
Colchester 12.30 Town Hall
Dover 12 St Mary’s Church
Exeter 11 Corn Exchange
Glasgow 12 George Sq
Gloucester 10.30 Gloucester Sq
Halifax 10 Arden Social Club
Hastings 10 White rock hotel
Liverpool 11.30 William Brown St
Leicester Victoria Park
Leeds 12 City Square
London 11 Lincoln Fields
Luton 12 Market Hill
Manchester 11 All Saints
Middleborough 4.30 Bottle sculpture
Newcastle 12 Life Centre
Norwich Noon Forum Amphitheatre
Nottingham Trent Square
Oxford 1 Bonn Square
Plymouth 1 Plymouth Town Hall
Portsmouth 12 Guildhall
Preston 12 Flag Market
Sheffield 12 Peace Gardens
Tauntan 11 Rugby club
Worthing 11 Steyne Gdns
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Thursday, 9 June 2011
There and not there
What will the dissertation be about?
When will it be finished?
For whom?
Distribution
Is it a toolkit? Menu
Transmedia - still to online? Why what about liveness and engagement
Music - Orange Blossom
When will it be finished?
For whom?
Distribution
Is it a toolkit? Menu
Transmedia - still to online? Why what about liveness and engagement
Music - Orange Blossom
Friday, 20 May 2011
I have 3 days before I hand in my work. Will I be happy with it as it is? Not really, its doesnt have the flow and the less obvious side to it Its more obvious but at the same time it illuminates a little of what was going on, who was part of the it and thats important as an additional layer. It also uses other peoples art work to express that.. someone elses music and photographs, which add to it massively. I still ahve a desire for newspapers but cant seem to access those BL as I had hoped for I could try again but I do need to focus and make best of what I have than keep adding, at some point there has to be a point to go thats it, for now.
I try and add by accessing from here again and then go to the library for assistance - I couldnt get into anything from they sent me a as a link I needed I was given this week. What I've further realised and experienced is how much research, archive material costs... photocopies of pages at Newspaper library and having to wait 5 days for some things to be delivered etc. I need to add that to my write up in some way- I could also email felicity etc for photographs? Or bug the SP lot more for the photos and the old copies of the paper as I do have some time to pick some dates and do copies. I need to be specific - and forethink what I might need rather than ramble through some of it. I did pick dates when I was at the BL and that really helped - I need to write up those dates so that I don't loose that info too. A question I have to keep asking, what will this bring to the production of this project and my learning and development. They are different things and this is the practical piece of the project so that is the most important but proces, who is making, why and how will it be distributed have been, are also key.
The deadline is drawing near but i seem to be unreal around it... I am not awake thinking about it but perhaps the huge energy and space I gave to the 2 weeks work in progress installation and studio development took a lot out of me but also brought this project out to the academic space I am within, slightly more focused than last time. It meant I could show DS the work in the gallery and meet with SUZ muna, get access and also get to see her work directly and consider other projects and works.. The mug project is but one...
I want oer 50% and really I want over 60%! but I need to make sure that happens by what I write so they can see the relationship between the theory and practice, rather than randomly, and what is influencing each part of those and why this in the context of the MA for part of my life but is not jsut for academic use. What I got from being here - kit, skilled technicians, badly used and engaged with at the best but still, (on my part mainly - never know what I can ask or what I should be able to ask and who and for how long and for what?)
I want to show an alternative, and that you and I are part of that alternative not enough, or something I want to do, is show the the shocking events of the past but they are important as part of a process to express patterns of behaviour, by whom and for what purpose and why indeed, I need to do the work that I am doing - they are part of an ideology and ideolgical processes.
- Thinking - Ask bfi if they will have 'socialism on trial' ?
- Ask BL for archive of paper? and maybe LCC archive to get it accessible?
- Consider where a project on the 47 could be housed in the curriculum?
Context of that period - Torys, Miners, wapping, BT sold off, GLC and councils, 1982 laws - So much happened.
I try and add by accessing from here again and then go to the library for assistance - I couldnt get into anything from they sent me a as a link I needed I was given this week. What I've further realised and experienced is how much research, archive material costs... photocopies of pages at Newspaper library and having to wait 5 days for some things to be delivered etc. I need to add that to my write up in some way- I could also email felicity etc for photographs? Or bug the SP lot more for the photos and the old copies of the paper as I do have some time to pick some dates and do copies. I need to be specific - and forethink what I might need rather than ramble through some of it. I did pick dates when I was at the BL and that really helped - I need to write up those dates so that I don't loose that info too. A question I have to keep asking, what will this bring to the production of this project and my learning and development. They are different things and this is the practical piece of the project so that is the most important but proces, who is making, why and how will it be distributed have been, are also key.
The deadline is drawing near but i seem to be unreal around it... I am not awake thinking about it but perhaps the huge energy and space I gave to the 2 weeks work in progress installation and studio development took a lot out of me but also brought this project out to the academic space I am within, slightly more focused than last time. It meant I could show DS the work in the gallery and meet with SUZ muna, get access and also get to see her work directly and consider other projects and works.. The mug project is but one...
I want oer 50% and really I want over 60%! but I need to make sure that happens by what I write so they can see the relationship between the theory and practice, rather than randomly, and what is influencing each part of those and why this in the context of the MA for part of my life but is not jsut for academic use. What I got from being here - kit, skilled technicians, badly used and engaged with at the best but still, (on my part mainly - never know what I can ask or what I should be able to ask and who and for how long and for what?)
I want to show an alternative, and that you and I are part of that alternative not enough, or something I want to do, is show the the shocking events of the past but they are important as part of a process to express patterns of behaviour, by whom and for what purpose and why indeed, I need to do the work that I am doing - they are part of an ideology and ideolgical processes.
- Thinking - Ask bfi if they will have 'socialism on trial' ?
- Ask BL for archive of paper? and maybe LCC archive to get it accessible?
- Consider where a project on the 47 could be housed in the curriculum?
Context of that period - Torys, Miners, wapping, BT sold off, GLC and councils, 1982 laws - So much happened.
Monday, 16 May 2011
Ramblings..
Collaberation via the odd text and a breathless telephone call on the odd occaision is deeply limited. However, we have both got this far.
Today I heard this was the end of the work??? I had thought tomorrow.
Visiting the NPG as part of its Lates season made me think again about audiences, much of my paid work has been about access to arts and film, who comes in who can use the medium and issues around distribution.
I was an accessible product but I dont feel that an accessible, traditional model of narrative is it.
Multiscreen for space, giving profile to art? past and present relationship of artists - one is paid another does not want money in the equation.
Some notes which I picked out: From FREE handout you can pick up as entering TATE gallery space.
BURKE & Norfolk - Photographs from the war in afghanistan
My initial reaction was too pretty... in his explanatory piece about his work, its not about the medium but use of it and beauty is a tactic to draw people in???!.. people are 'tricked into engaging.. seduced"
Simon On JBurke
"Imperialism is what interests me more than anything. ... I immediately saw a cycle of imperial history right there.
"burke is a more complete photogprher ... no formal visual training" "felt I needed to go to afghanistan to walk in his shoes"
TATE FILM - Pere Portabella
page 3 - Both political and matieralist avant garde of the 1970's and 1980's. ..interroagates the indexical bond between image and ferent; his use of structural materialist devices to loosen this bond serves to focus the vieewier attention on thier role in the political and cultural processes of the circulation of meaning."
Relationship between Pere Portabella and Joan Miro makred by the political commitment that both creators sought through asestic rather than directly political rebellion"
Me - watching I feel better here and I feel worse int he TATE modern.. mooving imae. more art than traditional work. use process to deepen understanding of work and style and why that is different. we constructed this.
PG 7 - 'you cant understand liberation if you dont begin to understand yourself'
Today I heard this was the end of the work??? I had thought tomorrow.
Visiting the NPG as part of its Lates season made me think again about audiences, much of my paid work has been about access to arts and film, who comes in who can use the medium and issues around distribution.
I was an accessible product but I dont feel that an accessible, traditional model of narrative is it.
Multiscreen for space, giving profile to art? past and present relationship of artists - one is paid another does not want money in the equation.
Some notes which I picked out: From FREE handout you can pick up as entering TATE gallery space.
BURKE & Norfolk - Photographs from the war in afghanistan
My initial reaction was too pretty... in his explanatory piece about his work, its not about the medium but use of it and beauty is a tactic to draw people in???!.. people are 'tricked into engaging.. seduced"
Simon On JBurke
"Imperialism is what interests me more than anything. ... I immediately saw a cycle of imperial history right there.
"burke is a more complete photogprher ... no formal visual training" "felt I needed to go to afghanistan to walk in his shoes"
TATE FILM - Pere Portabella
page 3 - Both political and matieralist avant garde of the 1970's and 1980's. ..interroagates the indexical bond between image and ferent; his use of structural materialist devices to loosen this bond serves to focus the vieewier attention on thier role in the political and cultural processes of the circulation of meaning."
Relationship between Pere Portabella and Joan Miro makred by the political commitment that both creators sought through asestic rather than directly political rebellion"
Me - watching I feel better here and I feel worse int he TATE modern.. mooving imae. more art than traditional work. use process to deepen understanding of work and style and why that is different. we constructed this.
PG 7 - 'you cant understand liberation if you dont begin to understand yourself'
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