Single Status in South Lanarkshire

Unison's annual delegate conference is about to get underway in Manchester. 

So I thought I'd put myself in the shoes of a ordinary union member - and draft the kind of motion I'd like to hear being debated - by the conference delegates.

I imagine the local trade unions in South Lanarkshire would not welcome an open and honest debate - about their track record.

Because the female dominated jobs - that were expected to benefit from Single Status - all  remained firmly stuck at the bottom of the pay ladder - as if Single Status never happened. 

But there are still some good people in the trade unions - trying their best - and trying to do the right thing.

And I'd hazard a bet - that they'd support my motion - they'd be demanding proper answers - and insist on holding people to account.    

"Conference notes with concern the way in which the 1999 Single Status (Equal Pay) Agreement has been implemented in South Lanarkshire Council.

Conference is especially concerned at the lack of transparent pay information which would allow union members to see and compare for themselves - the pay differences between male and female council jobs.

Conference agrees that the trade unions in South Lanarkshire have failed to hold the council properly to account over Single Status and Equal Pay and instructs the General Secretary to conduct an urgent inquiry which will focus on the following areas: 

1. A 'gender impact' assessment on the outcome - for both male and female jobs
2. Freedom of Information - and the need for transparency and opennesss on pay
3. The role of the local unions and links with the council - including arrangements for consulting individual union members

Conference agrees that the General Secretary will make a preliminary report to the Executive Council - outlining initial views and findings - within three months of the end of the 2011 National Conference."