MOST DANGEROUS SHOP WORKERS IN THE WORLD - Mandate Trade Union
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SHOPFLOOR
MANDATE TRADE UNION DECEMBER 2019
MOST DANGEROUS SHOP
WORKERS IN THE WORLD
...On the day black South African
team captain Siya Kolisi lifted the
World Cup we were celebrating our
own heroes who fought Apartheid...
TWO DAYS OF MUSIC, THEATRE AND DISCUSSION – see pages 4&5
COVER
NEWS STORY
OPINION
Collective rights of workers must be protected
YOUR right as a worker to be- which continues to give control will no longer accept that employ-
come a member of a trade union
is enshrined in the Irish Constitu- STRAIGHT to employers and forces workers
to struggle for what is a basic
ers and employers’ organisations
hold all the cards. We are demand-
tion, so you might be forgiven
for believing this bestows rights
that allow you to have that union
TALKING human right.
The result of this imbalance of
power between capital (employ-
ing equal rights and protection for
workers and their unions.
We demand legislation to give ef-
represent and collectively bar-
gain on your behalf – but, alas, John Douglas ers) and labour (workers) is that
hundreds of thousands of work-
fect to this equality, we demand a
Trade Union Act which gives work-
not so. General Secretary, ers are consigned to work in ers legal protection to organise and
Irish law does not give workers Mandate Trade Union lower-paid, precarious jobs, fear- to have their union collectively bar-
the collective right to have their ful of organising and without gain on their behalf.
union negotiate on their behalf. It’s trade unions, but when it comes any rights. The general election early next
akin to being allowed join a golf nearer to home they will deny these year will present the trade union
The share of productivity and
club, but not being allowed to play basic rights to their own workers. movement with the opportunity to
profits produced by workers has
golf. highlight and campaign across all
Why are employers and employers’ been dwindling and the share
If workers desire to have their organisations (employers’ unions) so going to investors and manage- political parties for this basic de-
union negotiate terms and condi- afraid of workers getting a collective ment has been steadily increas- mand.
tions of employment, they often union voice at work? The answer is ing. Ireland now has one of the We will engage with all political
have to forcibly convince their em- simple: they fear workers uniting highest proportion of lower-paid parties and report back to you, our
ployer of this course of action. But and fighting for decency and re- jobs as a proportion of total em- members and your families, the
more and more employers are un- ployment of all EU countries. We position of the various political
spect.
willing to engage, leaving workers parties so that you can make an in-
with little option but to take to the Employers want to remain the sole are second only to the United
arbitrators of wages, of benefits, of hir- States in this regard. formed decision at the ballot box.
picket line to win what is essen-
tially a basic human right. ing and firing. It’s about control, it’s In the Nordic countries and
about bullying and intimidation – es- Germany – where collective bar-
These recognition strikes are
often difficult, employers pile mas- sentially it’s about keeping workers in gaining and a voice at work are
sive resources into fighting against their place. commonplace – workers earn
the rights of workers to have a col- The irony of the situation is that em- more wages, enjoy more leave
lective voice at work, even though ployers are members of their own and are treated more fairly than
the right to a collective voice at unions (employers’ organisations) their counterparts in Ireland.
work is enshrined by the ILO (Inter- such as IBEC, SFA and ISME. These em- And here lies the nub of the
national Labour Organisation) Con- ployer organisations give employers issue – employers here fight to
ventions, the EU Charter of a voice about work, about their sector keep workers out of unions and
Fundamental Rights and United and effectively lobby authorities on forming collective bargaining
Nations’ Declarations etc. matters of importance to employers. because it gives them a bigger
Indeed many major employers, The Government has deliberately share of the pie. They are fully
many of whom are in retail, have failed Irish workers. They have never aware that a voice at work
idealist corporate social responsi- introduced or proposed adequate leads to better conditions of
bility policies covering their own legislation to protect workers’ rights employment.
supply chains declaring the rights to organise and collectively bargain, The trade union movement
of workers in their supply chain to and instead they have introduced can no longer fight with one
join and be represented by free weak and ineffective legislation hand tied behind our back. We
Shopfloor is published bi-monthly by Mandate Trade Union. Mandate Head Office, O'Lehane House, 9 Cavendish Row, Dublin 1 T: 01-8746321/2/3 F: 01-8729581 W: www.mandate.ie
Design & Editing: Brazier Media E: braziermedia@btinternet.com W:brazier.media Shopfloor is edited, produced and printed by trade union labour
PADDY POWER
Recruitment drive Penneys shop stewards back Labour Court pay proposal
boosts membership By David Gibney
Communications Officer
of all members in Penneys over the com‐
MANDATE membership at the bet- ing weeks.
ting chain continues to rise follow- A national meeting of Mandate shop The national shop stewards meeting
ing a very successful organising and stewards recommended in favour of ac‐ also endorsed a new claim for 2020 in
recruitment drive. A pay claim has cepting the pay recommendation of relation to a cost‐of‐living pay increase,
been served on the company, which 2.25% issued by the Labour Court on banded hours, rostering and holidays.
has moved on to the Labour Court. Wednesday, 20th November. Mandate Assistant General Secretary
The union is awaiting a date for the There was discussion at the meeting Gerry Light thanked the Penneys work‐
hearing. about the 2.25% recommendation not ers on the national negotiating team for
Meanwhile, Mandate continues to achieving demands made by the Pen‐ their diligent work over the past 12
take successful rest break claims for neys national negotiating team, but months, as the new team of Kay Fox,
members working at Paddy Power consensus emerged around a recom‐ Cathy O’Connor, Olive Lowry, Carol
with hearing dates pending on mendation for acceptance. McNamara and Oskar Goldman were
many more. Mandate will now commence a ballot elected as the 2020 negotiating team.
Lead Organiser Bill Abom addressing Penneys shop stewards meeting on November 19th
2 SHOPFLOOR y December 2019
NEWS
Big welcome:new era for the union as bakers join Mandate IN BRIEF
Tesco Ireland
MANDATE’S National Negotiating Team are constructively engaged in contin‐
uing discussions with Tesco Ireland about Pre‐1996 staff and further meet‐
ings are planned. Along with these discussions, Mandate is to seek further
information from Pre‐96 members through a members’ survey.
Marks and Spencer
A NATIONAL forum meeting with Marks and Spencer was held on Wednesday
6th November. At the meeting senior management outlined in full the chal‐
lenges facing the business in Ireland. Following the presentation the man‐
agers in turn faced a number of probing questions from local union
representatives.
Debenhams
FOLLOWING a national ballot, proposals containing a modest pay increase
were accepted by Mandate members. Meanwhile, against the continuing back‐
drop of difficult trading conditions there was a positive outcome from the UK
courts recently over a challenge to the recently‐agreed Company Voluntary
Arrangement.
Arcadia
SHOPFLOOR can report that only one of the planned 10 Irish stores ear‐
marked for closure will now cease trading. It follows negotiations with vari‐
ous landlords that resulted in more favourable lease terms for the retailer.
MOPI
AS A result of a term contained in our last pay agreement, discussions are
continuing over the company’s absenteeism policy. A set of proposals has also
been agreed which contain enhanced terms for Mandate members employed
Above: Mandate General
Secretary John Douglas
as online delivery drivers.
with Bakers’ Union General
Secretary Martin Hanlon and
Assistant General Secretary
McCauleys
John Martin MANAGEMENT have made a unilateral decision to award a 2% pay increase.
The move follows a formal request from the union for a meeting to consider
a pay claim for Mandate’s growing membership base at the pharmacy chain.
Outstanding matters with this anti‐union company have now been referred
to the WRC for conciliation.
Boots
TALKS are ongoing over a claim for the introduction of a new pay structure
for Mandate members employed as dispensers. Further details will follow in
updates to members.
Dunnes Stores
A NEW pay and benefits claim has been launched with Dunnes Stores which
is similar to Tesco pay and benefits claim and follows on from the union’s De‐
cency Retail Charter. Assistant General Secretary Gerry Light told Shopfloor:
“Online endorsements of the claim by Mandate members in Dunnes has ex‐
Right: Former Dublin Lord
Mayor Michael O’Halloran
ceeded all our expectations. This excellent initial endorsement of our Dunnes
with John Swift (son of the claim demonstrates a strong desire for our campaign and we will continue
late John Swift, Bakers’ Union seeking endorsements until at least the end of this year.”
general secretary)
LEGISLATION
Combining a traditional craft Mandate backs SF bill
with progressive politics... on rip-off premiums
By John Douglas music; and it played an important role Office, the last general secretary and MANDATE has given its full backing of paying legitimate claims” and en-
Mandate General Secretary in every aspect of its members and assistant general secretary of the to Sinn Féin TD Pearse Doherty’s sure that claims could not be totally
MANDATE Trade Union is delighted to their families’ lives. Bakers’ Union, Martin Hanlon and legislative efforts to bring clarity to invalidated because of minor dis-
welcome into membership the mem‐ Mandate Trade Union will continue John Martin, presented on permanent the insurance industry in Ireland crepancies in what customers tell
bers of the Irish Bakers’, Confection‐ this proud tradition. We will assist the loan to Mandate Trade Union a bust and stop customers having to pay insurers when taking out cover.
ers’ and Allied Workers Amalgamated bakery workers of Ireland to regain of James Connolly by noted Irish rip-off premiums. Backing the move to regulate
Union (the Bakers’ Union). their pivotal position in the sector and artist Hilary Heron. His Insurance Contracts Bill pricing and standards in the sector,
This union has a proud history in respect for the trade. passed its final stage at the Dail on Mandate Organising & Campaigns
The Connolly bust was commis‐
the social and political struggle in Ire‐ Like many sectors, the bakery sec‐ November 14th and, as Shopfloor Co-ordinator Brian Forbes said:
sioned by John Swift in 1946 and was
land, and at its height was one of the tor has been de‐skilled and industri‐ goes to print, it is set to go before “Our members and their families
most progressive trade unions on once displayed proudly in the Bakers’
alised with many products being the Seanad. will welcome Doherty’s continuing
these islands lead by their visionary Union Head Office, The Four
produced on a factory scale by under‐ Speaking to the Dail, Doherty interventions in the Dáil and on the
then‐general secretary John Swift. paid and undervalued workers. Provinces.
said the legislation – if enacted – public record questioning the in-
John Swift saw the role of trade The major bakery brands have been Mandate will keep the Connolly
would ensure that “the interpreta- surance industry in Ireland.
unions and trade union membership resisting union rights for some time bust on display in our Head Office as tion of a contract of insurance will “Escalating insurance impacting
as holistic, from the cradle to the now but we in Mandate believe that a reminder of the strong links be‐ be interpreted to the benefit of the on the working class is another ex-
grave. The Bakers’ Union ran its own we can support bakery workers’ craft tween the bakers and retail workers, consumer where there is confu- ample of the ‘rip-off Ireland’ men-
bakery schools; opened a library in its and production in winning a voice at who now together in one union will sion.” tality that many organisations sign
then‐head office, ‘The Four Provinces’, work and improving their terms and fight to fulfil Connolly’s vision of a He added that it would also stop up to.”
on Harcourt Street; it involved its conditions. united socialist Irish Republic. insurance companies using “issues
members in the Arts, culture and On a recent visit to Mandate Head Opinion: Michael O’Halloran p14 such as warranties” to “wriggle out Opinion: Pearse Doherty p29
December 2019 y SHOPFLOOR 3
DUNNES ANTI-APARTHEID STRIKE
MANDATE co‐hosted a celebration of
the 35th anniversary of Dunnes
Stores Anti‐Apartheid Strike in Lib‐
erty Hall on Friday, 1st and Saturday,
2nd November 2019.
The event, titled The Most Danger‐
ous Shop Workers in the World, was
sponsored by the Communications
Workers’ Union, the Financial Ser‐
vices Union, SIPTU and Unite the
Union, and involved a weekend of
theatre, music, spoken word and
panel discussions. All proceeds from
ticket sales went to MASI – the Move‐
ment of Asylum Seekers in Ireland.
In 1984, Mary Manning, a young
Dunnes Stores worker, followed a
union directive and refused to handle
goods from apartheid South Africa.
This led to one of the most protracted
industrial disputes in Irish history
lasting two years and nine months.
The determination of the 11 strik‐
ing workers prompted the Irish gov‐
ernment’s ban on importing produce
from South Africa and is credited
with contributing to the end of the
apartheid regime.
At the time of the strike, all South
Africans were categorised based on
their race into: Bantu (black
Africans), Coloured (mixed race),
A strike for justice and
Asian (meaning Indian and Pakistani)
or white.
The government forcibly removed
black South Africans from rural areas
and sold their land at low prices to
white farmers. From 1961 to 1994,
more than 3.5 million people were
forcibly removed from their homes
freedom celebrated in
and they were plunged into poverty
and hopelessness.
Black people had segregated
schools, education systems, churches,
public toilets, and they were denied
access to ‘white’ areas, including
beaches and swimming pools. They
were prevented from working in cer‐
words and song
tain jobs and were often subjected to
beatings and imprisoned for cam‐
paigning for equality and human
rights.
Nelson Mandela, who visited the
workers in Dublin after his release in
1990, said the actions of the Dublin
retail workers helped keep him going
through some of his most difficult
days in prison.
“Young workers who refused to
handle the fruits of apartheid 21
years ago in Dublin provided inspira‐
tion to millions of South Africans that
Standing ovation for Strike! drama
THE play ‘Strike!’ received a standing ovation from Most of the strikers were at the reading.
ordinary people far away from the
crucible of apartheid cared for our all gathered in Liberty Hall Theatre. When the play ended, and as each character
freedom,” said Mandela in 2008. And the passionate portrayals by the actors play- was asked if they would do it all over again,
The strike was also supported by ing the roles of the strikers brought back memories each striker stood up in the audience as their
Nobel prize winners, including Arch‐ for many of those involved in the original action. name was called and gave a resounding “YES!”
bishop Desmond Tutu and Irish poet The story of the strikers and their humanity – as in reply.
Seamus Heaney who joined the work‐ well as that of unsung heroes such as former Man- In short, a phenomenal action and a phe-
ers on the picket line. date official Brendan Archbold – resonated with the nomenal play.
Karen Gearon, shop steward during audience. The audience was then entertained by Farah
the strike, said: “Ireland in the 1980s The villains of the piece – Ben Dunne, the local Elle, Natayla O’Flaherty and Yankari perform-
had an undercurrent of racism so it manager and assorted scabs who crossed the picket ing spoken word, music and energetic dance
wasn’t popular to stand up for the line – also drew strong emotional reactions from that infected the whole auditorium as they
rights of black South Africans who those present. danced around the aisles.
lived thousands of miles away. Unfor‐
tunately we are now witnessing an‐ ity and if there’s one thing we’d hope lighted to host this celebration be‐
other increase in racism so this event cause we believe tackling racism is a
young workers today can learn from
is happening at a very appropriate trade union issue. Workers through‐
us, it’s that if you stand together and
time.” out the world – whether in Great
She added: “We were victimised by remain strong you can achieve any‐
thing.” Britain, India, Nigeria or South Africa
our employer and ridiculed by our
Mandate General Secretary John – have far more in common with each
former work colleagues. The gardai
and the Special Branch would harrass Douglas said: “The Dunnes Stores other than with the class that op‐
us, while the Catholic Church and anti‐apartheid strikers stood on the presses them and our solidarity with
many media outlets condemned us right side of history. They helped each other should not be based on
for our stance. But we stood our change the world for the better. Their nationality or skin colour.”
ground and ultimately our action was principled stance and their solid de‐ The Dunnes Stores Anti‐Apartheid
successful. Mandate termination is something we should strikers included Mary Manning,
“What brought about our victory contingent at all take inspiration from.” Karen Gearon (shop steward),
the event
was our collectivism and our solidar‐ He continued: “Mandate was de‐ Cathryn O’Reilly, Theresa Mooney,
4 SHOPFLOOR y December 2019
PANEL DISCUSSIONS
Dunnes strikers (below and above from left) Liz Deasy, Mary Manning, Karen Gearon, Cathryn O’Reilly and Michelle Gavin outside the Liberty Hall Theatre
Lessons to be drawn from the action
Bernadette Devlin McAliskey (second left) and Mandate General Secretary John Douglas Dunnes Strike cover picture: Derek Speirs PANEL DISCUSSIONS began in the
early hours of Saturday morning, 2nd
national conference in South Africa
November.
some years ago.
The first panel, titled Back to the fu-
“During their stay, they arranged to
ture: discussing the political context of
take a trip to Robben Island to visit
1980s Ireland and South Africa today,
the prison where President Mandela
was chaired by veteran activist Betty
was incarcerated. En route, the tour
Purcell.
guide, a native of Robben Island,
The panel comprised of SIPTU’s
drew their attention to a nearby
Frank Connolly; political activist
cemetery where many Irish nationals
Tommy McKearney; Bulelani Mfaco,
were buried.
an asylum seeker from South Africa
“He then told the group that of an‐
who is now an activist with MASI; Lucky Khamule, draped in South African flag,
other Irish connection, whereby he
and Christabel Gurney of the Anti‐ was overjoyed at his country’s success at
recalled that a number of young fe‐ Rugby World Cup that morning...
Apartheid Movement.
male shop workers went on strike
The second panel, titled Boycott: Irish left seemed to flag up everyone
supporting black majority people of
the power of the boycott movement else’s errors and suggested it was
South Africa and won.
throughout history, was chaired by perhaps time to work together and
“The two trade union officials on
award‐winning Irish Times journalist respect differences.
the bus – John Douglas and Steve Fitz‐
Kitty Holland and made up of Fatin Gethin Roberts whose campaign
patrick – were astonished because for
Al‐Tamimi of the Irish Palestinian Sol‐ Lesbians and Gays Support the Min‐
once, they were unknown to the
idarity Committee (IPSC); noted his‐ ers was portrayed in the award‐win‐
group, and here in Robben Island the
torian Margaret Ward, Mandate ning movie, Pride, expressed his
story and value of the Dunnes Stores
National Co‐ordinator for Campaigns solidarity with the Dunnes strikers.
strike was recounted.”
Brian Forbes and MASI’s Lucky Emily Waszak from MERJ spoke of
Patricia King also pointed out that
Khambule. the need to express sollidarity with
35 years on Irish trade unionists
Fatin outlined the connections be‐ those struggling in Ireland and
could still draw lessons from the
tween apartheid in South Africa and thoughout the world, including in
strike.
the current treatment of Israel to‐ Rojava.
She continued: “In an era when we
wards the Palestinian people while Mandate General Secretary John
are experiencing a distinctive rise in
Margaret spoke the Irish origin of the Douglas then explained that all bat‐
global inequality, when the world
Ireland Palestine Solidarity Campaign chairperson Fatin Al Tamimi surrounded by comrades who word ‘boycott’. tles and struggles, whether won or
are demanding Israel ceases the Administrative Detention of Palestinian prisoners and releases looks on ineffective and impotent at
Lucky expressed his great joy at lost, left behind them what he called
all Palestinian prisoners without delay! #stopAD the continued plight and devastation
seeing a black South African team a legacy of activists.
Vonnie Munroe, Sandra Griffin, Alma She said: “I think we can reliably of the Palestinian people, and when
captain lift the Rugby World Cup tro‐ He also posed the question as to
Russell, Michelle Gavin, Liz Deasy, conclude that all the accolades, we in this First World economy rarely
phy that morning, while Brian spoke whether the Irish trade union move‐
Tommy Davis and Brendan Barron. plaques, street names, songs and if ever consider the plight of 170 mil‐
with equal pride about about his ment needed a new political arm.
The lead official for the strike was memoirs, national and international lion children subjected to child
union having the famous Dunnes The final act of the day was when
the late Brendan Archbold who labour, 48% of whom are between
recognition, are all very well de‐ strike as part of its history. the Echo Chambers podcast team in‐
coined the phrase “the most danger‐ the ages of five and 11.
served by this group of workers. The final panel discussion was ti‐ terviewed five of the the Dunnes
ous shop workers in the world” fol‐ “Indeed when we take opportuni‐
“While the dispute is certainly em‐ tled Linking struggles: the importance Stores Anti‐Apartheid Strikers who
lowing the deportation of the ties to turn our backs on migrants
bedded in the history of the Irish of solidarity between movements and spoke of the strike, its implications
workers from South Africa by armed seeking sanctuary on our shores we
labour movement it has probably re‐ campaigns, and chaired by Sinead on them personally and their com‐
guard in the 1980s. must embrace the persistence
ceived more international than na‐ Kenndy for the Coalition to Repeal mitment to the cause of anti‐racism.
ICTU General Secretary Patricia demonstrated by the Dunnes Stores
tional acclaim. strikers and believe that we can effect
the 8th. l Their inspirational story is
King opened proceedings on Friday, Bernadette Devlin McAliskey dis‐ now available on Echo Chambers
1st November with a call on trade “ I recall a short anecdote to illus‐ change, despite the obstacles put in
cussed the state of the Irish left. She podcast website – check it out at:
unionists to remember the tremen‐ trate this… I know of two senior trade our way, and ultimately such commit‐
pointed out how everyone on the https://tinyurl.com/DunnesPodcast
dous deeds of Dunnes Stores strikers. union officials who attended an inter‐ ment will deliver a difference.”
December 2019 y SHOPFLOOR 5
NEWS
TAKING
Stephen Nolan
spoke on the
political economy
of climate
breakdown
ACTIVISM
TO THE
NEXT LEVEL
Mandate holds
successful first-
ever National
Activists School
THE inaugural Mandate National Ac‐
tivists School was held at Lusty Beg
on Lower Lough Erne, Co Fermanagh,
over three days in October. General Secretary John Douglas (above left) speaks via Skype to UFCW activists from the Safeway and Giant Union Bargaining Committee who received a strong message of solidarity from Mandate activists
Members drawn from six out of 10 gathered in Lusty Beg. Alan Hanson, Mobilizing Director for UFCW Local 400 (above right), joined the discussions also via Skype to talk about the union’s organising campaign at Safeway and Giant in the US
Mandate divisions attended the very future direction of our union. outside of Mandate ranks, including bargaining committee. They are cur‐ ence almost identical workplace is‐
successful event which ran from “If we are to declare ourselves a Ciaran Campbell; Dave Gibney; Bill rently engaged in two organising sues and struggles to that of their
Wednesday 16th to Friday 18th Octo‐ members‐led union, then we must lis‐ Abom; Stevie Nolan; and Sinn Fein TD campaigns within Giant and Safeway brothers and sisters here in Ireland.”
ber. ten to the viewpoints of our activists and housing spokesperson Eoin supermarket corporations. He continued: “The phrase ‘a
The numbers and the geographic in shaping our union’s strategies for O’Broin. “Our Skype session with Alan and worker is a worker is a worker’ was
spread of those taking part is a signif‐ the future.” Brian Forbes said: “There was also our comrades in UFCW Local 400 was never more appropriate and despite
icant indicator of the genuine interest He added: “Personally, I learned a a transatlantic hook‐up with a good extremely interactive and definitely what some employers would have us
activists have towards progressing great deal from these three days with friend of Mandate, UFCW Mobilising one of the highlights of the event as it believe, we are all workers – not
the union’s political and social agenda some of our most dedicated and effec‐ brought home the message that slaves.” Summing up the three days
Director Alan Hanson and our broth‐
through genuine discussion and sub‐ tive activists.”
“
ers and sisters in the UFCW Local 400 American workers in retail experi‐ of “excellent” discussion and debate,
sequent direct action. Brian Forbes described the agenda
Event organiser National Coordina‐ as “eclectic”, covering a wide range of
tor Brian Forbes told Shopfloor: “Lis‐ issues of importance to members. ...an innovative
tening to the thoughts and views of
our activists on a wide range of issues
These included: union democracy,
structures and decision making, cli‐
and extremely
over three days was genuinely em‐ mate change, Mandate local council encouraging first-ever
powering.
“It indicated a level of class con‐
structures, the important role of
women in trade union political organ‐
Mandate Activist School
well worth repeating
”
sciousness and commitment to na‐ ising, building union power and the
tional and international solidarity urgent need for public housing.
that certainly gives me massive hope There was a range of excellent and building upon
for the organising and campaigning speakers drawn from both inside and on an annual basis
Eoin O’Broin TD (above) speaks to Mandate activists about the urgent need for a state-sponsored programme of public housing. Bill Caine at the flipchart
(Tesco, Westport) (right) reports back on behalf of his workshop team on the theme of workers’ rights in Ireland
6 SHOPFLOOR y December 2019
NEWS
DELFIN TEACHERS STRIKE
Thanks for the solidarity, the
pizzas and the cups of tea!
THE striking teachers at Delfin En‐ Ken Reilly and everyone else in half of Mandate we wish to extend
glish School have through their Mandate – and a very special thanks our ongoing deep solidarity for the
union, Unite, sent a message of to Sandra Stapleton for all the cof‐ actions being taken by the English
thanks, appreciation and solidarity fees and biscuits delivered to the language teachers at Delfin English
for all the support shown to them in picket line!” School.
their continuing industrial action to The statement went on to thank “Withdrawing your labour is
secure decent pay, working condi‐ Brid Smith of PBP and Solidarity’s never an easy decision to make but
tions and union recognition. Ruth Coppinger of Solidarity, who when an intransigent management
And the teachers have singled out both came down with cheques for consistently refuses to address
their near‐neighbours at Mandate €500 towards the Unite Hardship teachers’ concerns or to negotiate
Dave Gibney gave a presentation on the theme ‘Union History, Union Identity’ for particular mention. Fund. €500 donations from Unite’s with them collectively through the
In a statement, a spokesperson 102 branch and the Construction union of their choice, then workers
Forbes said that it had resulted in union activity both at local and na‐ said: “Given the icy winds of the Branch were also received as well are left with little choice but to
“many shared experiences” and “first‐ tional level. past few weeks, members have as a further €500 from the IWW. strike.
rate inter‐divisional engagement” on “It was an innovative and ex‐ been glad of the warm welcome and “Pizza‐bearing” Atlas teachers “Retail employers engaging in
the need for a well‐organised, cam‐ tremely encouraging first‐ever Man‐ hot tea and coffee in Mandate head‐ were also name checked by the similar anti‐union tactics would be
paigning and fighting Mandate Trade date Activist School which is well quarters just a few doors down. Delfin strikers as were fellow lan‐ wise to pay heed to the inevitable
Union. worth repeating and building upon
Follow‐up action is planned with “Thanks to Mandate General Sec‐ guage instructors from Grafton, consequences of anti‐worker ac‐
on an annual basis. So members retary John Douglas, as well as Dave IBAT and the English Language Stu‐ tions. Mandate is proud to stand in
those divisions who took part and should watch out for news of our sec‐
and the union is to monitor – hope‐ Gibney, Gerard Halligan, Muireann dio. solidarity with our Unite brothers
ond Mandate National Activists
fully – any subsequent increase in Dalton, Moira Murphy, Ger Ryan, Mandate National Co‐ordinator and sisters in struggle. Victory to
School in 2020,”added Forbes.
Maria Nolan, Mandate NEC member Brian Forbes told Shopfloor: “On be‐ the Delfin Strikers!”
Ciaran Campbell
delivering a
session on union
democracy and
decision making
within unions
Above: Step Up’s Muireann Dalton and NEC member Ken
Reilly line up with the Delfin strikers
Left: Mandate Tesco activist Ciaran Niall (front centre)
visited the Delfin picket line on October 15th
FEEDBACK National Activists School...
"The importance of this kind of activist “Having the opportunity to attend the first-ever Mandate
training to a union on the front line of Activists School was a great experience. As an activist Mandate
defending workers’ interests cannot be I’m always looking at ways to get more involved in our local National
over stated. We need to learn how to council meetings and to participate much more in our union
organise in our communities as well as campaigns and organising. I’d highly recommend this
Activists
our workplaces in order to be able to Mandate School to any member seeking to learn more School
further our members’ interests, and about both the world we live in and the role of our union in
build a fighting union. The activists leading a worker-led drive for increased class consciousness
school in Lusty beg is an important and a better future for us all on this island.” MORE
aspect to this work." Aaron Nolan, Pygmalion Bar, FEEDBACK ON
Eoghan Fox, M&S, Galway Dublin Central & West Division PAGES 16,33 & 39
December 2019 y SHOPFLOOR 7
NEWS
IT PAYS TO BE IN THE UNION...
2.5%-8.5% rises for Kavanagh Group workers
MANDATE has secured a new pay are not fit for purpose as staff are not ground for our next set of negotia‐
deal for members working in the Ka‐ being adequately rewarded for their tions which are still more than a year
vanagh Group SuperValu chain which work and efforts and the contribu‐ away,” he added.
has eight stores located across Coun‐ tions they make to their employers’ To this end, both Ciaran Campbell
ties Mayo and Donegal. profits.” Campbell said that while it and his fellow organiser, Gerard Hal‐
The newly‐agreed pay award pro‐ was accepted that the retail industry ligan, are currently engaging with
vides for a range of wage rises from a erating in the unknown because of generally was operating in “very chal‐ members in a couple of stores in Co
minimum of 2.5% to 8.5%. lenging and competitive times”, this Donegal.
Brexit. It should also be noted that
Ciaran Campbell, who is Mandate’s could not mask the fact that most Campbell explained: “It’s a strategy
some retail employers feel that the
Divisional Organiser for its North and that we hope to roll out over the fol‐
National Minimum Wage (NMW) is a businesses in the sector were “in the
lowing 12 months across all the
West Division, said the rises on aver‐ benchmark in terms of pay. Because main profitable”.
stores so that we can actually take the
age represented an annual pay hike of of that, this agreement – while it’s “It is in those workplaces that Man‐ pulse of the members – on not only
€1,300 for a full‐time worker. He also nothing to be sniffed at – is only a date is intent on securing rates of pay, their wishes, but their real employ‐
pointed out that some members work in progress. and terms and conditions for its ment needs.
would be better off by €2,000 a year. “We have already signalled that the members that are not only meaning‐ “The results of these types of en‐
He said: “This has come at a time current pay regimes in this and many ful but that actually matter. gagement will help formulate our
Alan Monaghan: praise for Mandate negotiators when unions and businesses are op‐ other similar type of employments “We’re already preparing the agenda going into the next pay round.
We’ve a bit of work to do – but seeing
Solidarity visit: a member better off by €30 or €40 a
The LO delegation week is not only pleasing… it repre‐
proudly display sents a tangible start!”
their Mandate medals Meanwhile, SuperValu Castlebar
shop steward Alan Monaghan has put
on record his thanks to that Mandate
negotiators over the deal that was
brokered.
He told Shopfloor: "The recent ne‐
gotiations with Kavanagh Group have
been positive, especially around the
pay scale – the time taken to reach
the higher rates of pay have been
greatly reduced.
“Let me be absolutely clear in stat‐
ing that this could NOT has been
achieved without Mandate and the ef‐
forts of Gerard Halligan and Ciaran
Campbell.”
CLASS ACTS...
Phil of wisdom...
IN THE first of our new Shopfloor
section highlighting the class-
conscious, publicly-uttered views of
well-known celebrities, we begin
with comedian Phil Jupitus.
Writing under the pseudonym of
Delegation from LO visits Mandate HQ
By Eoghan Fox date’s transition from being a servic‐ Jonathan Hogan, who heads up the Mandate was given an informative
“Porky the Poet” Phil had this to say
about workers standing strong on a
picket line...
“I have always thought there’s an
unrecognised grace and beauty in a
picket line. Also, they are a huge
embarrassment to the organisations
M&S Galway, Mandate Western Division ing‐model organisation to an activist‐ union’s Training and Development presentation looking in particular at being picketed. The fact that,
A DELEGATION from the LO confed‐ based, organising union. Department, gave a brief overview of the work of LO summer camps. Each for centuries, news organisations have
eration of unions visited Mandate’s Communications Officer David Gib‐ the work done to develop Mandate’s summer a large number of young ac‐ portrayed the objectives of those who
Head Office in Dublin on 21st August ney spoke about a number of the educational capacity, and the impor‐ tivists come together to visit shops stand on them as avaricious, unreason-
to share stories about organising in union’s current campaigns and high‐ tant role it played in strengthening and businesses in a bid to ensure able or somehow evil is a testament to
Norway. lighted the importance to Mandate of the union as a whole. compliance with collective bargain‐ the strength of the image.
General Secretary John Douglas work done, for example, in defeating For their part, the comrades from ing agreements and to recruit young “A picket line is the simplest most di-
gave a presentation to the seven vis‐ water charges. LO (Landsorganisasjonen i Norge) workers into the unions. rect manifestation of the will of people
iting Norwegian comrades, who came He emphasised to the visitors no spoke about their organising work in The visitors were presented with to be treated with some measure of
from the port city of Drammen, set‐ matter how many wage increases various respective sectors – LO rep‐ Mandate medals of our founders as a fairness. Ordinary workers, forced to
ting out Mandate’s deep history of were secured for members, without resents a number of different unions. token of solidarity between us. Both stand outside a place of work, because
struggle and outlining its many challenging austerity measures – They also set out a number of con‐ groups agreed to work closer to‐ they simply won’t take shit any more.
achievements since its foundation. such as water charges – these victo‐ crete examples of youth participation gether into the future on campaigns Thank you for supporting everybody
In particular, he flagged up Man‐ ries on pay would be null and void. in LO activities. and issues that affect us all. out on the line. Don’t cross them!”
8 SHOPFLOOR y December 2019
NEWS
Union’s pioneering
on-field initiative...
Champs
Cup first
for Unite
By Rhona McCord
Community Coordinator, Unite the Union
Above: Mubarak Olumegbon of Mosney FC and Pat Jennings present
Dundalk’s Chris Shields with the man of the match award
Left: Dundalk FC winners of 2019 Unite the Union Champions Cup
doyle United followed by excellent
runners‐up Courtown Hibs, Macroom
THE Champions Cup is a three‐year United AFC and Star Rovers, Limerick.
initiative sponsored by Unite the Baldoyle United is a football club in
Union that brings together, in a two‐ north Dublin. This year it celebrates
leg play‐off, the winners of both foot‐ 50 years of football in the local com‐
ball leagues in Northern Ireland and munity. They currently have 25 boys,
the Republic of Ireland.
girls and adult teams, and they run a
This year’s fixtures, between Lin‐
fun ‘junior academy’ every week for
field FC and Dundalk FC, were held in
four to seven‐year‐old boys and girls.
Windsor Park on Friday, November
8th and at Oriel Park on Monday, Baldoyle United is an inclusive club
November 11th. The games ended in that promotes equality, diversity and
victory for Dundalk (7‐1 on aggre‐ has a strong anti‐racist message.
gate). Well done, Dundalk! Both the judging panel and Unite
Unite General Secretary Len were very impressed with Baldoyle
McCluskey attended both fixtures United and their commitment to
and the tournament ambassador was equality and diversity that is so
legendary Arsenal, Spurs and North‐
clearly represented in the activities of
ern Ireland goalkeeper Pat Jennings. An all-female team of officials presided over the second leg of the competition at Oriel Park Oriel Park. A key part of Unite’s the club with girls, boys and adult
Well‐deserved congratulations to sponsorship of this competition is to
both teams for taking part and for teams.
promote diversity, equality and com‐
their support for this cross‐border The club’s participation in a range
munity throughout society and to
initiative. of multi‐cultural and cross‐border
challenge the intolerance that only
As part of the Champions Cup, a events sends a positive message to
serves to divides us.
quarter of the sponsorship money our communities about friendship
was allocated to local community Grassroots clubs and respect. They should be very
projects and charities. A cheque was A competition open to grassroots proud of all their volunteers and play‐
presented on the night of the final football clubs throughout the country ers. Well done, Baldoyle United!The
match to Temple Street Children’s was launched to find the best integra‐ Champions’ Cup is a celebration of
Hospital and to Baldoyle Football tion initiatives taken by local football football and community. We acknowl‐
Club. teams. edge that people are different and we
Unite also teamed up to support The judging panel, made up of acknowledge the right of each of us to
two grassroots football teams – from members of Show Racism the Red celebrate our traditions but football
Mosney direct provisions centre and Card, had a difficult task in reading
brings us all together to a place where
Quay Celtic in Dundalk – in recogni‐ through the details of the excellent
we can respect and celebrate that dif‐
tion of the great work shown by vol‐ and inspirational work being done at
ference.
unteer coaches who give their time local level throughout the country.
and commitment so that young peo‐ All of those initiatives are worthy of We look forward to continuing this
ple can enjoy sports and integrate praise and we congratulate each and initiative and working with more
with other. Both teams provided Unite Senior Officer Brendan Ogle and Mags O’Brien, of Show Racism the Red Card, presenting €2k every one who entered the competi‐ clubs and players for the 2020 Cham‐
mascots for the second leg match in cheque to Baldoyle United, winners of the grassroots competition for best integration initiatives tion. The overall winner was Bal‐ pions Cup.
Coaching opportunities for Mosney young adults
THROUGHOUT the build-up to this supply the boys’ and girls’ teams months. This is a mandatory
year’s Champions Cup, Unite with new football boots. Unite is requirement for getting into foot-
Community members linked up also supporting an initiative, along ball coaching. This will be followed
with coach Robert Fimbo and with the FAI, for young adults by attendance at the FAI’s first
young players from Mosney direct living in Mosney who have ex- level coach education course
provision centre to forge links and pressed an interest in coaching where the fundamental skills will
support for asylum seekers in football to pursue that goal. be taught. After the young
Ireland. Supported by FAI community coaches have completed their
This work will continue over the development officers in liaison initial training, they will be facili-
months and years ahead. And as a with the centre and their coach, 20 tated to take up coaching opportu-
result of talks with the young young adults from Mosney will nities with local clubs as well as
Rhona McCord and Brendan Ogle of Unite with Mosney football coach Robert Fimbo (right) delivering players at Mosney, Unite teamed attend child safeguarding aware- helping with the running of weekly
180 pairs of football boots to players at the direct provision centre up with Toplion Sportswear to ness training over the coming football sessions at Mosney.
December 2019 y SHOPFLOOR 9
NEWS
ROADSHOWS LAUNCHED
Rolling initiative to
build a momentum
for United Ireland
TRADE unionists from across Ireland
North and South gathered in Dublin
unionists to take a strong lead in dis‐
cussions towards how we might
on Saturday 9th November to discuss achieve a socialist 32‐county Repub‐ Dublin Council of Trade Unions’ Mick O’Reilly (above) speaks from floor. Union activist Noirin Greene (below) did a superb round-up of day’s discussions
their vision of what a United Ireland lic of Ireland. consultation with trade union mem‐
should look like. Two superbly researched eco‐ bers on these issues during a series of
The seminar, titled Uniting Ireland nomic and political presentations fol‐ Uniting Ireland – Uniting Workers
– Uniting Workers, took place in Man‐ lowed. The first by Conor McCabe, roadshows.
date Head Office, Dublin, and was author, researcher and educator, ably Group spokesperson Ruairí Cre‐
hosted by Trade Unionists for a New followed by SIPTU political aney described the first roadshow
and United Ireland (TUNUI). economist Michael Taft, both of event as “the start of a major debate
whom perfectly set up the day for fur‐
This was the first in a series of within trade unions on the prospect
ther discussion on the theme Uniting
roadshow events to be held across of Irish unity”.
Ireland - Uniting Workers and moving
the country that will gather opinions He said: “Trade unions have been a
towards establishing an Ireland for
from trade unionists on a number of key driver of social and economic
the many and not just the few.
vital issues in the context of the Irish change throughout Irish history. In
Attendees were then asked to give
unity debate. recent years, we stood by women in
their views on universal health care,
Mandate General Secretary John workers’ rights and tackling climate the repeal referendum and we stood
Douglas gave an opening welcome to breakdown in a United Ireland con‐ by our LGBT brothers and sisters in
a packed main hall in the union’s Par‐ text during a series of coordinated the marriage equality referendum.
nell Square headquarters, extolling workshops. TUNUI intends to de‐ “One of the biggest changes coming
passionately the need for trade velop a policy document based on the down the road is Irish unity, and
trade unionists need to put their
stamp on that debate.” country and how we can better tackle now look forward to visiting places
He continued: “We want to ensure climate breakdown as a unitary state. like Derry, Galway, Cork and Belfast,
that a United Ireland is a New Ireland “This is part of a series of events among others, to listen to the wide
that enhances the rights of workers across the country to gather the opin‐ variety of views that exist within the
and gives them a bigger say in their ions of trade unionists on what a new trade union movement.”
workplaces and in wider society. and United Ireland should look like Speaking following the event, Man‐
“We can’t leave this debate to the and to encourage the wider trade date National Coordinator Brian
boss class. If we do, they will carve union movement to advocate for it.”
out a new Ireland in their interests Forbes told Shopfloor: “We were de‐
He added: “We had an extremely
“
and it will be trade union members lighted to be able to host this first
successful event in Dublin and we event here in our historic head office
who pay the price for that.”
Creaney pointed out that the road‐ We want much, on Parnell Square, Dublin.
“This is an important first gather‐
shows would be focusing less on is‐
sues surrounding identity and more much more ing of a series of trade unionist‐led
on the material benefits that will flow
from Irish unity.
than a fairer Ireland... debates, both North and South, on the
desperate need for a new Ireland.
“The main themes of discussion we don't just want a “Our aim, as trade unionists,
”
shouldn’t be that of just seeking a
will be centred on how we can
achieve an all‐Ireland universal
piece of the cake, we fairer Ireland – no, we want much,
health service free at the point of want the whole much more than that. We don't just
need. We will also be discussing what want a piece of the cake, we want the
workers’ rights will look like in a new bloody bakery! whole bloody bakery!”
TRAINING
Participants in the
Workplace Union Reps
Intro course which took
place from October 21st
to 23rd at the Training
Centre in Dublin
10 SHOPFLOOR y December 2019NEWS
Ruairí Creaney said TUNUI wants a new Ireland that enhances workers’ rights and gives
them bigger say in society. SIPTU researcher Michael Taft (below) speaks at seminar
Conor McCabe delivers his General Secretary
presentation at the seminar John Douglas
One of the discussion
groups at the seminar
Pictures: Donal Higgins
He continued: “We are always equal and egalitarian Ireland is an es‐
mindful that building a new 32‐ sential first step towards achieving
county socialist republic from the James Connolly’s vision of an Ireland
remnants of a failed republic will not from the plough to the stars.
be easy and will inevitably take time. “Given our deliberations here today
“However, trade unionists the in Dublin we are minded to remem‐
length and breath of this country, dis‐
cussing and sharing views on a more
ber the immortal words of Connolly,
‘For our demands most moderate are, Workplace Union Representative
Advanced Training
This three day course is designed to provide trade union activists with
the knowledge and skills to effectively contribute to and participate in
their unions Recruitment & Organising strategy.
Course Content:
l Building workers power
l Engaging workers
l Talking to the undecided
l Handling objections
l Base building and
collective action,
identifying and recruiting leaders
l Mapping (workplace and community)
l Understanding power
Certification and Progression:
Members who successfully complete this training
course will obtain a Mandate Certificate.
Noel Martin from Navan
being presented with Places are limited. As there is a high demand for this course please
James Connolly statue ensure you contact your Mandate Union Official or the Mandate Training
after winning the draw
made at the meeting Centre on 01-8369699 or email mandateotc@mandate.ie to secure your place.
December 2019 y SHOPFLOOR 11COMMENT UNIONS MUST GET RADICAL...
Mandate NEC member
Martin Mahony (centre)
underlines his point that
improved legislation
on industrial issues can
be achieved...
Remove the handcuffs: ditch 1990 Act!
“
By Jimmy Doran The meeting was told that for every force. Many of these workers are in
Trade Union Left Forum inspection carried out in the retail ... retail workers Individual workers are at a huge
disadvantage; but even a group of their fifties, while younger workers
A WELL‐attended meeting organ‐
ised by Unite in the Community, in
sector, a sum of more than €1,000
was returned to workers in unpaid
are continuously workers must now give a minimum of coming through are not joining
unions, so it’s on a downward spiral.
seven days’ notice, and have to abide
conjunction with Communities wages. undermined by other by a huge number of rules and regu‐ Many young workers have not even
Against Low Pay (CALP), was held
in Dublin recently.
Martin explained: “Mandate has
achieved more than €100 million in
retail workers who are lations in the balloting of members,
which often leads to long gaps be‐
heard of trade unions: they hardly
know they exist. This is because of
The aim of the meeting was pay increases across the retail sector not in a union. This tween dispute and strike. the side‐effects of ‘social partner‐
twofold: to organise low‐paid in recent years. ship’.
freeloader mentality This tips the balance of power
”
restaurant workers into a union, “However, despite this significant firmly towards the employer—as it Unions are inactive and are not
and to actively identify rogue em‐
ployers who are exploiting workers
achievement, retail workers are being must be challenged was designed to do. seen on the streets or on strike
fighting for workers’ rights. Despite
continuously undermined by other When the Government refused to
by paying poverty pay and the man‐ retail workers who are not in a union. at every opportunity increase the minimum wage by 30 ‘social partnership’ being aban‐
ner they deal with tips for waiting This freeloader mentality must be cents in the recent budget, low‐paid doned many years ago, this mental‐
have a “radical trade union cam‐
staff. challenged at every opportunity,” he workers on the minimum wage could ity continues today, largely thanks
The campaign against the Ivy paign”? Anti‐worker legislation is so
added. have downed tools in a strike against to the anti‐union legislation enacted
restaurant over employees’ tips was restrictive that if workers were to
as part of it, which restricts unions
explained to the meeting. Lobbying have such a campaign they would the minimum wage. This is also out‐
lawed under the 1990 Act as “politi‐ in taking strike action.
One of the speakers was Julia “Mandate launched our ‘Secure need a senior counsel in one hand Under the voluntarist trade union
and the 1990 Act in the other in order cal strikes” are banned.
Marciniak, a former member of staff Hours = Better Future’ campaign and system there is no right to union ac‐
at the Ivy, who was sacked for fight‐ working alongside other unions in a to navigate all the legislation that is Collective cess; we do not have collective bar‐
ing back. Her dismissal is currently concerted lobbying campaign, which used to stop workers’ resistance. The tips issue could have been gaining rights; and there is no right
being fought by her union. was led by our members in Dunnes, Let us look at three issues dis‐ dealt with in a collective manner. The to union recognition.
Councillor Cieran Perry explained we won the introduction into legisla‐ cussed at the public meeting: the Ivy workers in all restaurants that are We may have the right to join a
that CALP was a grassroots organi‐ tion of the Employment Miscella‐ Restaurant, the minimum wage, and stealing tips could have gone on union, but without these other
sation for campaigning against low neous Provisions Act 2018. tip theft. strike in support of each other as an rights it is akin to having the right to
pay and organising actions during “Workers in Ireland now have a If there was no 1990 Act in place industry‐wide strike. Restaurants not own a bike but not being allowed to
trade disputes when trade unions right to seek a contract that reflects when Julia Marciniak was sacked directly involved could have had sup‐ cycle it. It puts handcuffs on work‐
are banned from doing so – in par‐ the actual hours they work – thus from the Ivy Restaurant, her fellow‐ port strikes. This would give the ers.
ticular by the Industrial Relations proving that improved legislation can workers could have gone on strike workers involved a much stronger We need to remove these hand‐
Act (1990). be achieved, especially when unions and placed a picket on the premises position for fighting back against this cuffs. Then, and only then, can
Cieran described how CALP had collectively combine their campaign‐ immediately and shut it down. outrageous policy that is now com‐ workers take off their gloves, roll up
been active during the Greyhound, ing activities.” This could have brought the own‐ mon across the country. their sleeves, and fight back. Then,
Lloyds Pharmacy and Tesco strikes. There was a call at the meeting for ers of this business to the negotiat‐ ‘Social partnership’ and its legisla‐ and only then, can workers have a
Not being part of the trade union a radical trade union campaign to ing‐table. But under the 1990 Act, tion, the Industrial Relations Act, has radical trade union campaign
movement or officially on strike, it fight back against low pay and pre‐ single‐worker disputes are drawn out led to union density being at its low‐ against precarious work, poverty
was able to place pickets where carious employment. The question for months, and by such time all the est level in the history of the state, pay, and all the other inequalities
unions were forbidden to place has to be asked: are workers able to energy is gone out of the dispute. hovering at around 24% of the work being imposed on the working class.
them – for example, in shopping There is very little power in a
centres during the Lloyds and Tesco union today. This power must be re‐
disputes. CALP members manned gained if we are to get a just share
pickets and blocked bin lorries of the wealth that we produce.
where unions were forbidden from If we had 100% union density
doing so. without power we are fighting a los‐
Martin Mahony, a retail worker ing battle. What is needed is a radi‐
based in Dublin, speaking on behalf cal workers’ rights campaign to tip
of Mandate, outlined his union’s the balance back in our favour.
support for the campaign, citing the We must fight to have the 1990
need for unions and community ac‐ Act abolished and take on the em‐
tion groups to collaborate more in ployers, with a ballot box in one
order to achieve robust legislation hand and strike notice in the other.
to stop wage theft by unscrupulous Unions must become radical or be-
employers. Supporters from other unions show solidarity with striking Lloyds Pharmacy workers come redundant.
12 SHOPFLOOR y December 2019You can also read
