Scotland backs Prentis again in GS election

UNISON's Scottish Region overwhelmingly voted to again nominate Dave Prentis for General Secetary at its meeting of branches from across the country in Glasgow today

Proposing the nomination, Scottish Convener Mike Kirby reminded delegates that Scotland had stood by Dave twice before and welcomed his decision to seek a new mandate to build the maximum unity to confront the unprecedented challenges facing the union.

"Whether at the negotiating table, or on the picket line, or in the Labour Link, I want a General Secretary that puts the members first. I want a General secretary who has the ability to use all of his talents to put the case for our members and public services", NEC and Health delegate Gordon McKay told delegates. Based on those tests, he said, Dave Prentis is the candidate we must back.

There were arguments from just three out of the 32 branches that there should be no nomination, with complaints about the timescales. Mike Kirby already challenged that argument, pointing out that all of the potential candidates were known to the branches already and Jane Carolan reminded delegates that the timetable for the election had been chosen by the elected lay National Executive, not Dave Prentis.

Earlier at the Scottish Committee Jane reminded delegates of Dave's record in office and called for a positive campaign based on that record in taking forward the profile of public service workers, the number of UNISON members and UNISON's role as the voice of public services.

The more sceptical of us wondered if the big deal a few were trying to make about timescales and 'democracy', would have been made if the ultra left had actually decided on their preferred candidate (at least two are vying). If they had, you bet they would have been punting that, rather than attempting the failed delaying tactic of no nomination. A good few eyes were opened today.