So Long, And Thanks.....

Dear All

Some of you will have noticed that I did not stand for the position of Branch President for the coming year. I feel it only right and proper to explain why I chose to stand down.

I have been asked by many branches, reps and members to stand for the position of Group President in the forthcoming GEC Elections. I do not believe it possible to be both the Group and a Branch President at the same time. I firmly believe that whoever is President of this Branch should be able to concentrate on the needs of the members in South East Essex without the prospect of a conflict on interests.

I also do not believe it is right for union representatives to collect various positions. It would have been wholly wrong to be elected as Branch President now, only then to step down in May to take up another position within PCS. The commitment I make every time I stand for a post is that I will fulfil it to the best of my abilities for the full term of office.

Clearly the election I am standing in for Group President has no guarantee of success, and if I am not successful then I will remain on the Branch Executive and return to full time Departmental work; but my commitment to PCS and its members remains unchanged and I will continue to support the union and its members wherever and whenever I can.

I hope all members in the Branch will support me in the forthcoming elections by casting their vote at election time in April. I honestly believe I can bring a different type of leadership to the GEC, one that engages with members, is visible and is accountable.

I would like to thank all members for their continued support during what is proving to be very difficult and taxing times for us all, regardless of what business we work in or what building we are located in.