Proportionality debate shows the problem of elder control

[LinChong]

The main tension in the CWU at this time is between the generations. The older generations have all the power, the younger generations have none. The make up of the powerful reflects the make up of the membership 30 years ago. Delegations to conference behave like family groups on holiday only instead of being allowed to go to lively bars and nightclubs, the younger generations are required to spend all evening with the granddads in the bars where they play episodes of "Only Fools and Horses" on continuous loop. In this way, the elders chaperone the younger generations and prevent them mixing and organising.

The Elders need to let go of power and proportionality will emerge when the rank and file members are allowed to nominate and vote for who they choose. Trade Unions should be 'bottom-up' organisations.

Message to Postman - How about a separate Conference 2014 board?

[General Mannerheim]

Trade Unions should be 'bottom-up' organisations.

Ahemmm do you want to join Dvb and co in the naughty room?

[TrueBlueTerrier]

Message to Postman - How about a separate Conference 2014 board?

If there is a high demand for it - we will do it. At the moment there aren't enough threads or items f=to reserve a whole section, a few threads and a main one in the Union room I think are enough for now.

However, I do tend to agree that the Union as a whole does seem to have an ageing and one dimensional demographic amongst its activists, but there are some "young guns" that impress me. I also think the CWU is slow to use new technology in both engaging the membership and disseminating information. A for instance how about developing an app that has bullet points for agreements (and a direct download link) and one that reps/activists can use to get and read LTBs.