My own tuppence worth for the moment:
Des Derwin – September 15, 2016
Some quick, initial and incomplete thoughts on a political (not an economic or a full trade union and industrial) programme for union activists to campaign for in the movement.
1. Time now for disaffiliation from the Labour Party.
2. The establishment of elected political committees and fora in unions to address pro tem support for election candidates in each election. Political funds to stay.
3. The question of replacement affiliation suspended pending the emergence of a new workers party commanding substantial support.
4. The unions to consider participation in the development of a new broadbased radical left party of workplace, community and campaign struggle and Dáil representation.
5. Repeal of the 1990 Industrial Relations Act.
6. Repeal of FEMPI
7. Trade union independence of employers and governments through renunciation of social partnership agreements and arrangements.
8. Sinn Féin should be regarded as part of the fluid mix towards a new workers’ party but not at this time a candidate for replacement of the Labour Party by trade union affiliation.
9. All trade unions to allow political discussion and decision as vital to the interest of workers; discontinue prohibitions on political motions, etc.
10. Recognition of the tremendous support in the movement for the Trade Union Campaign for Repeal of the 8th Amendment and for all unions to openly back repeal.
11. Legislation against ‘uncertain hours’ at work, ‘if and when’ contracts and effective casualisation.
12. Statutory right to trade union recognition and representation.
SIPTU Activist 