The Socialist 22 November 2007

Profit system wrecks climate

Defend Karen Reissman: Defend free speech and trade union rights

Nationalise Northern Rock permanently to safeguard workers' interests

SOLIDARITY APPEAL: Defend Tukwila Teachers Threatened with Termination for Antiwar Student Walkout

France: massive public sector workers' strike

SNP budget will not satisfy expectations

Detention without trial: Defend civil rights

New attacks on incapacity benefits

'Cheap and nasty' Camden council to shut deaf school

News in brief

Socialism 2007: Inspired by past victories, preparing for future struggles

Support the Northern Ireland classroom assistants

Cardiff schools: Parents march against closure threats

Rail transport: Overpriced, overcrowded, underinvested

Train drivers strike in Germany

Labour's pensions - a social time-bomb

Denmark general election: Socialist People's Party doubles its MPs

2008 US presidential election

GM, Chrysler, and Ford's 'race to the bottom'

Postal workers campaign against "MacMail"

Doncaster Hospital workers on strike for £9,000 back pay

National Union of Journalists: Standing up against the robber barons

Previous issues, etc

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Postal workers campaign against "MacMail"

Western Counties branch of the Communication Workers Union (CWU) have called for a 'no' vote in the ballot over the Royal Mail pay deal. Members are angry that the loss of pay they suffered during industrial action has not resulted in benefits gained through the negotiations.

The initiative was with the union as we approach the heavy delivery Christmas period. Management have increased the stress on the workforce by introducing new methods of working.

One postal worker reported to us that in Teignmouth, South Devon, a new employee was taken on with a contract for one hour a week. This enables management to have total flexibility over that employee - a 'Dutch' practice from the privatisation of the Netherland's postal system.

One union activist described this as 'MacMail'. Another pointed out that small offices, like Teignmouth, who don't have a union rep currently, are open to such abuses by management.

The CWU nationally must know this is going on but what are they doing to protect their members? Management seem to be using the lull to bring in practices that will undermine the union.

Socialist Party members are actively working to support the CWU Western Counties branch in its 'no' vote recommendation.

The ballot closes on 27 November.