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Employers And Unions Do not have Exclusivity On Ethical Behaviour
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The blogosphere is pulsating with commentary about the Australian Health Services Union and whether or not Federal MP Craig Thomson has or hasn't done anything wrong. Allegations of misspending on unsavoury 'private' services with union credit cards are distasteful and fairly or unfairly, "mud sticks". Nevertheless the vast majority of the manufacturing workers I spoke with today saved their vitriol for big business.
They spoke of the growing divide between those who have billions, (they were particularly dismissive of mining and forestry magnates) and people who belong to the poor working class or worse, tragically and unacceptably, live in abject poverty. Unions have performed an essential role throughout our labour history. They have had to fight for what should not have had to be fought for. Nonetheless they do not have a moratorium on ethical practice. They don't keep the so and so's honest. Sometimes it is the delegates and officials who need keeping honest.
ESF
I've worked across several sectors for 20 years. I've come across the entire gamut like the employer trying to create flexibility in the workforce to remain afloat, nimble or competitive only to be sabotaged by union representatives serving their own self-interest. I have seen hate campaigns (i.e. vicious bullying) mounted against managers running legitimate change agendas even where this may put long-term worker employment at risk (as frequently those divisions were eventually sold or closed down). This really is holding a line that fails to look at the main issue.
I have seen incompetent and/or unscrupulous managers who commoditise their people and put them under impossible strain. I've also seen delegates around the factory floor threaten and marginalise people pleased to perform a reasonable day's work for an acceptable day's pay. I realize completely the resentment of workers who see executives getting rich off what's perceived as being worker exploitation. However while far too many Australians may really be doing it tough and be understandably envious, it isn't a crime to be wealthy. Union members are entitled to be represented by people sincere about hearing them and advocating for them; not to pursue their own agenda and not to defend the indefensible. Corruption isn't exclusive to big business. For individuals to continue to determine the relevance and performance of their unions, members have to fight for morality inside their own union community or we will see membership decline further. Employers and unions must ethically discharge their duties and be seen to become. (More)
