POLITICAL SCHOOL REPORT

This political course can be explained quite simply as an excellent introduction into politics and an eye opener into the world outside the workplace. 12 delegates came from all over the country, varying in age and covering every aspect of the transport industry so it was a good cross section of members for the course. It was a very intense week, with lots of information to absorb from a variety of guest speakers covering different aspects of politics. I was probably the weakest member of the class but I believe I gained more knowledge than most because of this. I did my own research using the excellent facilities at the union’s education centre at Doncaster in order to combat my lack of political knowledge. The content surpassed my expectations and after only five days, I had gone from being politically naive to the point where I am now campaigning and organising on political issues in my workplace and community. Not only does the course educate you, it gives you the confidence to use that knowledge to make a difference. I won’t forget the look on the faces of comrades on the course after watching the video from Justice for Colombia, which was so disturbing. Every day was interesting and questioned our views on politics, changed my opinion of politicians and showed us all what can be achieved simply by knowing the political system. At the end of the week we were treated to a tour around Westminster, including sitting in the galleries of the House of Commons and the House of Lords. John McDonnell MP gave us a great insight to the political system, the Parliamentary group and how we as individuals can help. Those of us on the course have agreed to continue to support each other in different regions and industries whilst striving to continue to educate each other now that we have a platform to work from thanks to the course. I urge all members reading this to put your name forward for this course. It is a credit to the union for investing so much time and effort that encourages members to become more interested in what we are up against whilst showing how we can actively oppose any threats in our workplace, industry or community. A big thanks to all the guest speakers, the tutors, union officials and all the great staff at the education centre for making it such a positive experience which will I know will help us as all in the tough times ahead. • The next RMT political school will start on 13 March. The closing date for applications is January 4 2010. Please contact your branch secretary if you wish to apply. RMT helpline 0800 3763706 :: november/december 2010 :: RMTnews 16 R MT reps at Select Service Partners and Rail Gourmet attended a general reps course in Doncaster recently to get training on the companies’ discipline and grievance procedures. The course included debates on the companies’ use of mystery shoppers to spy on workers, the very poor conditions workers have to endure in the workplace from extreme heat/cold and lack of facilities. Staff are often forced to wear the uniforms of train operating companies when working on board trains, although they do not work for that company. Low pay within the company was also discussed, linked to the skills and tasks being carried out. Recruitment and retention was also debated with everyone agreeing that the union must recruit in the workplace and get more reps in place. All present drew up plans to recruit in their branch areas and to fight for recognition in Rail Gourmet. Course tutors Glen Burrows and Graham Buchanan helped and guided everyone through the procedures. Geoff Revell addressed the reps on the organisation and history of the union. More RMT members are becoming reps at the companies to help and defend workers as well as recruiting new members and encouraging more to become reps. POLITICAL SCHOOL REPORT RMT shipping member Darren Proctor reports from the annual political school in Doncaster and Parliament SELECT SERVICE PARTNERS AND RAIL GOURMET REPS COURSE In the picture right to left; Troy, Ron, Steve, Ian, Nikki, Shane, Chadia and Natalie