Billy Stewart opposing Motion 14 – Speaking ‘In a Personal Capacity’
“The union already has existing measures at its disposal to deal with members that abuse or misrepresent their offices in UNISON. I’d like to draw your attention to UNISON activists that stand on picket lines, showing solidarity with all striking workers regardless of which trade union is in dispute.”
“Activists that share solidarity on mixed trade union and community rallies – supporting working class people and working-class communities.
“Lyn Marie O’Hara represents thousands of low paid workers in Glasgow City Council. Lyn Marie may have a very busy caseload on top of the excellent work she does on the NEC – but do you know what? She manages to find the time to be that activist on the streets, on the picket lines and at the rallies – sharing her successes and showing the way to others.”
“Promoting UNISON policy yes – but often speaking in a personal capacity. Sometimes it takes a while for UNISON policy to catch up with the campaigns of the day and we need to use a moral compass – it’s called leadership. Don’t let those in the shadows write our speeches, keep recruiting activists and keep UNISON a campaigning union.”