Manchester mental health UNISON members will be on strike again on Thursday 18th, Friday 19th and Monday 22nd October.
Karen Reissman speaking at a Defend the NHS demo, March 2007
This coincides with the disciplinary hearing for their branch chair, Karen Reissmann. There will be a mass lobby of the hearing Thursday 18th October 8am, at the Trust’s headquarters (Chorlton House, 70 Manchester Rd, Chorlton, Manchester M21 9UN) where the disciplinary hearing will take place.
In a statement, UNISON said:
Karen is accused of speaking out against cuts and privatisation. She is also accused of telling people she is being disciplined and telling people she is not guilty! These are charges that all relate to her trade union activity.
Manchester Mental health and Social Care Trust has had serious problems for some time. UNISON has opposed many recent cuts and reorganisations. UNISON believes the action being taken against Karen is an attempt to stop union protest and stop people speaking out.
The 700 UNISON members have already taken 8 days strike over this issue (see previous libcom coverage here and here). They have lobbied Labour Party conference and intend to further lobby local MPs during this strike.
Public meeting “Save our Mental Health Services” is planned for Wednesday 31st October, 12.30pm Manchester Town Hall.
For more information contact
Andy Gill UNISON regional office 0161 211 1000 or
Karen Reissmann, branch chair 07972 120 451 or
Caroline Bedale, branch sec 0161 203 4702
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