'Commitment, passion and respect'

The new chair of Unite’s Executive Council (EC) Andy Green opened Unite’s Policy Conference on Tuesday (July 11).

Andy paid tribute to the outgoing EC chair Tony Woodhouse, as he highlighted the major issues facing Unite members now, including the cost of living crisis, profiteering, and Tory anti-trade union laws hindering the fundamental right to strike.

Still, Andy went on to say, that “our union is in a fantastic position”. He noted that Unite’s finances are in good order, and that in the last few months, Unite membership has grown, “bucking the trend” facing other unions.

Andy also highlighted the NHS celebrating its 75^th anniversary this year, adding that the NHS was “of our great importance to all our members”, as he saluted NHS members now taking strike action to fight for better pay, terms, and conditions.

Andy vowed that Unite will “defend all our members” across the UK and Ireland, as well across the world as he emphasised the necessity of global solidarity.

He highlighted the issues set to be debated at policy conference over the week, including discussions on pay, workers’ rights, the economy, social action, the environment, international issues, organising, political and more.

Closing his address, Andy thanked conference for engaging in debate throughout the week with “commitment, passion and respect”.

By Hajera Blagg

Pic by Mark Thomas