Dave Prentis launches Northern region 'Vote for Public Services' campaign‏

UNISON General Secretary, Dave Prentis, yesterday launched UNISON Northern region’s ‘Million Voices - Vote for Public Services’ campaign. To a packed audience Dave promoted the region’s vision for the future - which builds on the Million Voices themes of social justice, good jobs, and decent public services.
http://www.unison.org.uk/northern/campaigns.asp

In a region which has the highest level of child poverty in the UK outside of London, the lowest wage economy, and one of the highest levels of public service employment, the UNISON Million Voices campaign which calls for investment not cuts in public services is particularly relevant - in contrast to Tory policies for public services of slash and burn. That’s why getting our message out to our members and also to non-members is crucial in the run up to the General Election. As Dave said, it was not public sector workers who caused the economic crisis, but we are the ones being asked to pay the price.

He spoke about the commitment of public sector workers, many of which are low paid workers, and often women who are now being targetted for cuts. UNISON Northern having launched their demands with particular emphasis on the NHS, Local Government, Higher Education, Care for the Elderly, Police and Justice, and Young People. This sets a positive agenda which will be used to engage members with local politicians by asking them to sign up to the campaign.

Dave went on to the Northern TUC 'Speaking Up For Public Services Campaign' to highlight the important role of public services of getting the economy out of recession, and also in being there to support people through difficult times. An excellent platform of speakers included Mark Serwotka (PCS), Billy Hayes (CWU), Colin Smith (GMB) and Andy Mudd (APSE).
http://www.nebusiness.co.uk/business-news/business-comment/2010/03/15/time-to-talk-up-public-services-51140-26031320/

At the well attended event Dave was able to make the case for not only protecting public services, but for investment. He argued that the UNISON Million Voices campaign for a fairer society complements the fight against the Far Right, particularly the BNP, who are trying to play on people's disaffection.

UNISON has a positive independent agenda and we need to engage as many of our members, non-members and community groups to join with us to promote our vision for society, one which is built on social justice, decent jobs and quality public services - this is a positive alternative agenda - one which votes for public services.