TRADE UNIONSTRADE UNIONS

Standard Grade Modern StudiesStandard Grade Modern Studies

INDIVIDUALS AND TRADE UNIONS

There are several ways in which ordinary trade

union members canparticipate (takepart) in the work

of their union.

The simplest and most basic way that an ordinary member can

participate in a trade union is by paying membership fees on a regularbasis. Without these fees the union

would not be able to operate.

1. Paying Fees

Unions are only strong if theirmembers attend meetings and get

involved in decision making. Ordinarytrade union members can attend

meetings in their workplace, whichare organised by the shop steward.

These meetings often take placeduring lunch breaks or at the end of

the working day.

2. Attending meetings

Union members have the chance tovote for their union officials. Forexample, members can vote for ashop steward to represent the

workplace and a General Secretary to be in overall charge of the union.

It is important to vote in union elections so that the best person canbe elected for these important jobs.

3. Electing Officials

Those union members who are keento become involved in the work of

their union can stand as candidates themselves. For example, they could

become the shop steward or the health and safety representative

in their workplace.

4. Standing for election

Members can participate in their unionby supporting any decisions made by theunion. For example, when a trade union

calls for industrial action, it isimportant for as many members as

possible to follow instructions for it tobe effective. Many union members

believe that after a ballot all membersshould follow the decision – even if they

personally disagree with it.

5. Supporting decisions

Exam QuestionExam Question

Explain, in detail, the ways that Explain, in detail, the ways that ordinary members can participate in ordinary members can participate in trade unions.trade unions.

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