Members will be aware from previous mail outs that Napo has been involved in the formulation of policy statements issued by the TUC in respect of the crisis in the Middle East, including the ongoing campaign to bring about a ceasefire in Gaza and allow the supply of medical aid and supplies into the region. Alongside this there have been numerous international attempts to bring about a cessation of hostilities in addition to the release of hostages and political prisoners.
At this year’s TUC Congress, the following motion (which was supported by the Napo delegation) was carried - https://congress.tuc.org.uk/e3-stop-the-escalation-of-war-in-the-middle-east/#sthash.uDK1cBIR.dpbs - calling on the TUC to support a day of action in support of an immediate ceasefire.
Below is the official notice from the TUC about events which are taking place next week.
Guidance for Napo members
The current situation in the Middle East evokes strong emotions, though we would take this opportunity to restate the TUC's call to "ensure all workers are treated respectfully".
It is of course fundamentally a matter of choice for individual Napo members about supporting the day of action on the 28th November, or the activities they participate in. The list of possible protest actions produced by the TUC is understandably generic, and it may be easier for trade union members within certain sectors of industry or their individual workplaces to support them in the ways suggested, should they wish to do so.
We hope this brief outline provides some guidance to staff on the ways members can, if they wish, participate in this day of action in accordance with the expectations and rules of our employers.
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Use of social media in and outside of workplaces: Follow guidance issued by the employer on the use of social media, or the wider rules and expectations on behaviour where this applies.
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Identification of yourself and colleagues in and outside of the workplace: Don't take any photos on work premises, and if immediately outside the premises ensure no signage can be seen that may identify the employer or building involved. Please remove any identification - such as lanyards or ID badges before being photographed.
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Use of official premises for protest meetings or discussions: Given our employers, and the nature of the work we are involved in, please ensure that any supportive action you may wish to organise or take part in takes place away from official premises.
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Wearing of supportive insignia or clothing and posting placards, flags etc: Given the nature of the issues that are being profiled in this particular campaign, while taking into account the diversity of the whole workforce, our advice to members is not to do this on official premises.
Ian Lawrence Ben Cockburn
General Secretary National Chair
22nd November 2022