#UCU2018 1. Members of UCU Unite branch did not 'withdraw' their cooperation. They walked out, turned off the mics and imposed a lockdown of Congress.
2. Congress is the supreme policy making body of the Union (rule 16.1). As such it is the chief interpreter of these policies.
3. On three separate occasions, Congress decided that the proposed motions were not inconsistent with Union policies and should be heard. These are binding votes and UCU Unite branch members have no authority to override them.
4. The statement reads 'the union is disappointed that their action is being portrayed as an attempt to undermine the democratic structures of UCU'. Those members represent neither UCU nor Unite. They only represent themselves.
5. Their action is not 'portrayed' as undermining democracy. It is objectively undemocratic. Unite branch members are entirely free to walk out. But they have absolutely no right to prevent others from engaging in democratic debate.
6. They are disappointed? We are enraged. UCU employees and officials work for the members, not the other way around.
7. Motion 10 merely 'calls' for the SG's resignation. SG can refuse to stand down. Motion 11 is a motion of censure, i.e. a formal statement of disapproval. Neither motion 'imposes a sanction'.
8. Delegates have travelled from all over the country to attend Congress. Some of them have had to take time off. Others have caring responsibilities. UCU Unite branch members have 'concerns about their health and safety'? Come on, give me a break.
9. I have no idea how to write a thread on Twitter. This is a mess.
10. We are the Union.
• • •
Missing some Tweet in this thread? You can try to
force a refresh