REPORT OF THE MIDLSNDS TUC PENSIONERS NETWORK HELD ON OCTOBER 21ST

THIS NETWORK REPORT CONCENTRATES ON JUST SOME OF THE ISSUES THAT WERE DISCUSSED AT THE MEETING.

Discussion on the development of the Network: - It was agreed that the Network should concentrate in future on pensions and related issues which in the main directly concern retired people. It was pointed out that receiving reports from the National Pensioners Convention (NPC) was normal practice as we are two main organisations that represent pensioners, TUC, and the NPC. The NPC which is an  umbrella organisation represents approximately one and a half million pensioners, and makes representations to Government Ministers on issues revelant to pensioners. The Network has close links with the NPC as many of its branches are affiliated to the Regional NPC.

On organisation and information: - There was considerable discussion on the Network retired members blog, which was set back in February thanks to the active assistance of Alan Weaver from the Midlands TUC. It was set up for the purpose of being developed into an informational and organisational tool. Alan Weaver has expressed the view that it has developed into a useful tool and is kept up to date on a regular basis, which is essential. The Chair of the Network indicated that he was frustrated because up to date he has had to supply almost all of the articles for the blog himself, which in his was limiting and unsatisfactory. If we are to develop the full potential of the blog, then it is essential that all the network activists submit reports of what is happening in their area's, and to submit articles on relevant issues. It was agreed that the Secretary and Vice Chair would receive training from Alan Weaver, thus ensuring that we now have three members in a position to run the blog. It was agreed that advertising the existence of the blog was essential and must be a priority.

November 30th Trade Union day of action: - This issue was discussed at length, its importance for both the people still in employment and for those who are retired was stressed. It was agreed that we should encourage all of our retired members to get involved and give whatever support they can to the day of action. It is also essential that we work hard to build bridges between present and future pensioners; every opportunity must be taken to build strong alliances, around the issue of pensions and related issues. Leading retired members activists should get in touch with their local strike day co-ordinating committees, become involved in the preparations for the day, and ensure that we have at least one speaker on the platform of the local rallies that will be taking place on November 30th. In giving our support to the day of action, we must ensure if possible that the speakers that we provide are able to represent both the TUC pensioners network and Regional NPC. It was agreed that the Chair must write to the Midlands TUC regional Secretary and submit a list of names of our speakers for the different locations, and request that they are passed on to the appropriate local co-ordinating committee.

Report submitted by Mike McLoughlin - Network Chair.