RMT helpline 0800 376 3706 :: march 2016 :: RMTnews 29 A n RMT delegation joined the Maritime Union of Australia's quadrennial national conference held in the Gold Coast, Queensland this month, writes Paul Shaw. From the outset, it was clear the bond that had been built up between MUA and RMT throughout the years. The love for ‘Our Bob’ was also clear, through the t-shirts with his face on them to their mantra "they don't like us, we don't care". RMT general secretary Mick Cash took to stage to speak to delegates on the struggles that we have around cabotage and seafarers rights - the same struggles that are seen all over the world. Over 120 of the 500 delegates were overseas guests representing over 20 countries attending a conference by a relevantly small union of 14,000 members who certainly punch above their weight and have the same ethos as the RMT in being a politically active, fighting and militant union. Mick spoke about the current plight facing our seafarers at Calmac. From the platform Mick spoke of the possible privatisation of the ferry services by the SNP government, with outsourcing vultures Serco the other other bidder in the process. Other unions members from around the world showed their support and sent a message to our members in Scotland that the trade union movement worldwide supports each other in all endeavours. As a lasting memory to the bond established between the two unions, RMT national secretary Steve Todd presented Paddy Crumlin - MUA national secretary and ITF president - with a stain glass panel with motifs of both unions similar to the one that is on display at Maritime House, Clapham. The MUA have a chant “MUA – Here to stay” and we are sure that the delegates present will take away a lasting impression that RMT is here to say and as said by the Mick Cash – “our union was here before this government and will be here after them and many to come”. From April 1 2016 the transitional low rate of £1.50 will be increasing to £1.75 and the transitional full rate of £2.90 will be increasing to £3.70. Direct debit payments will be amended accordingly as will contributions collected by employers under paybill deduction arrangements. Those sending cheques or postal orders direct will need to adjust the amounts sent in accordingly. Period Transitional low Transitional full Weekly £1.75 £3.70 4 Weekly £7.00 £14.80 Monthly £7.58 £16.00 We maintain a tight control of our costs and continually re- examine them to ensure that we make best use of our resources to deliver improved services to you. I am sure you will agree that NOTIFICATION OF CONTRIBUTION RATE CHANGES FROM APRIL 2016 BUILDING INTERNATIONAL SOLIDARITY