Andy Kerr re-elected as DGS (T&FS)

Telecoms & Financial Services

Members across the CWU’s Telecoms & Financial Services constituency have granted Andy Kerr a third term as deputy general secretary (T&FS).

In a postal ballot conducted by independent scrutineer, Electoral Reform Services, Andy secured the backing 65 per cent of those who cast their vote, compared to the 35 per cent support received by Winston Richards of Greater London Combined Branch.

Voting closed yesterday morning, and the result was announced today

A breakdown of voting numbers can be viewed in Letter to Branches No. 380/18

Commenting on his re-election Andy said: “I would like to thank all the members who have voted to elect me DGS (T&FS).It’s a pleasure to serve you for a third term and I can give my full commitment that I will continue to ensure the T&FS constituency keeps apace of the changes taking place in the industry.

“I will ensure that we don’t stand still, but adapt and change, serving the whole range of companies in which we have recognition, by ensuring our structures are in shape to represent the future diversity of our membership.  I will also stick to my pledge of encouraging and developing new young leaders, creating a union that continues to modernise and grow.

“The challenges ahead in BT continue and I commit to provide leadership and a tough negotiating stance to ensure that our members working conditions are protected and enhanced.  This year I will commit to end the appalling situation of agency workers who work alongside their colleagues, doing the same job, yet earning significantly less in BT.  PBA (pay between assignment) contracts have to end and we will continue to  lobby Parliament to ensure the Government listen  and eradicate these contracts.

“I will also continue to improve our organising and recruitment strategies to increase our membership.  A prime target this year is EE, where I am committed to reaching our goal of maximising membership to achieve recognition – a solution that will allow the union to bargain for better pay, terms and conditions for members working in EE call centres. I will also seek to extend the reach of recognition agreements where we can in other areas.

“In Financial Services we have just achieved recognition across the whole of Santander Technology, which is great news. I will continue to ensure our strategy across our Financial Services members serves our members well – and we continue to maximise our membership in this sector.”

Andy concludes: “I look forward to serving members within the constituency into the future and taking on the tough challenges ahead.”