UCOL Branch of TEU has hosted a number of activities focusing on profiling organisational concerns where possible, bringing membership together over formal and informal gatherings for the purposes of organising and information sharing.

These have included a round of membership meetings across the three campuses early in the year where the Branch Field officer has had the opportunity to personally meet membership.”  Hosting the President at meetings across the three campuses which also provided members an opportunity to discuss and raise topical issues that were impacting on their employment relationship.” ”  A meeting was held by videoconference where 25 General and Allied staff discussed and debated concerns about ‘job creep’ and ‘stress in the workplace’

While no formal recruitment campaigns have been held, Branch executive have moderate success with recruiting new members and our membership has grown over the last 12 months.

The recent AGM in September provided an opportunity for 30 members to enjoy a meal (post AGM).

Union representation on organisational committees are typically good with representation on Staff Council, a new Academic Staff Capability Panel and as observers on Career advancements and Remuneration panels.

There remains significant and ongoing issues around remuneration, staff resourcing, and upcoming reviews that point to the probability of staff redundancies.

Michael O’Connell

Branch President