Unison branch officers attended a very successful meeting organised by Coventry TUC on Monday night called to discuss and organise against the massive cuts that are planned in Coventry.
The meeting focussed especially on the cuts being proposed by the Council that will see virtually every local service closed down and cut, for example children’s and community centres, public libraries, toilets, lollipop ladies, school transport for children with disabilities and much more.
As well as members of Unison there were activists from other unions present such as Unite, PCS, CWU, NUT, UCU as well as the TUC. There was a wide ranging discussion on the current situation and how we can organise against what is happening. Some key dates were agreed for protests and demonstrations. Put them in your diary now!
Tuesday 13th Jan Outside Council House 1- 2pm. Protest lobby against last full council meeting before the vote on the budget
Saturday 21st Feb (Time and assembly point TBC) Demonstration through Coventry
Tuesday 24th Feb (Time TBC) Full council meeting which will vote on the budget cuts.
The meeting discussed supporting the petition that is currently on the council website which is available here http://epetitions.coventry.gov.uk/2014/12/stop-the-council-cuts/ (if you are a council worker please ensure you sign in your own time).
There will be further meetings to discuss the campaign including the production of leaflets (includingin different languages), further protests and developing alternatives to austerity. Unison will play our part in this campaign.
There is much to do and we call on all members to get active and get involved. Please contact the branch office for more information office@unisoncoventry.co.uk