News

The ISS workers shop stewards network held a 2 day conference on Belgium last week attended by over 35 people. The network, of ISS activists from across Europe, was meeting to discuss its work with the European Works Council, the promotion of the Cleaners Charter and the activities to plan for this years International Justice Day.

The network has called for protests and actions around the world on June 16th for Cleaners and Security Workers, in all major cities at airports, financial districts, Government Buildings, railways and hospitals - to unite Cleaning and Security Workers in a demand for a living wage and equality. All affiliates in the sector will be asked to organise actions to make the case for ending the `race to the bottom` by paying a living wage, improving conditions, reguilarising hours, improving equipment and uniforms and providing better training.

The network also discussed improved working and strengthening of the European Works Council. The EWC was represented by its Vice Chair Rob Lumens from the Netherlands. In a very successful session the union activists were encouraged to meet and work with their country representaticves on the EWC which was agreed and also that the EWC would raise the issue of the Cleaners Charter and the UNI `Responsible Contractors Policy`.

The network continues to thrive and the 2 day session was of immense value to the campaigns in Europe and the planning of the events on 16th June.