Advice

To all union members / activists

“If you work in the public sector and want to speak out against the cuts NCAC would advise you check whether your own employer has any restrictions that you need to consider, these are most likely to be relevant when talking about cuts being made by your own employer. Most employers have some form of protocol regarding what staff can do in their off duty hours. NCAC would be very surprised if you were restricted from campaigning in your own time but if you are, your union will be able to tell you whether they think any such clause if enforceable. If they are cuts by your employer there also maybe restrictions you need to be aware of; they maybe vague such as bringing your employer into disrepute.

In either case get advice from your trade union.

If you are a trade union representative then you have more protection if speaking out against cuts that are being made by your employer. Most trade unions are looking for media spokespeople so if you are interested in this contact your union for advice.

In this world of restrictions on the operation of trade unions we can no longer say as the Strawbs did in their famous 1970s song, Part of the Union, “that I can say what I think like the company stinks!” without the fear of litigation or disciplinary action!!”

 NCAC