Group chapels will now be represented at National Union of Journalist (NUJ) delegate meetings following the passing of Motion 7.
The motion, which called for group chapels be represented at Annual Delegate Meetings and Special Delegate Meetings, “with the same tabling, speaking and voting rights as branches”, was passed with no opposition speakers and only minimal votes against.
Peter Murray proposed the motion on behalf of the National Executive Council. He spoke of the need to bring members and activists from frontline campaigns “right into the policy-making process”.
The front line
The recent dispute between Trinity Mirror and NUJ members in Merseyside and the Midlands provided a back drop to Vice President’s comments.
Calling on the recent developments Murray said: “If there’s any question mark over whether this motion is urgent, consider this. The NEC two days ago voted to give authority to the union calling industrial action at three different Trinity Mirror titles.
He added: “So ask yourself this: what will be the best place to co-ordinate and plan the members’ response across Trinity Mirror? [...] The best place is through the group chapel.”
Changes to the rules
Although this is not a rule-changing ADM, Motion 7 is one of several proposals set to be put forward throughout the weekend which will involve a change to the union’s rules.
In the case of Motion 7 the change was allowed as the NEC had been instructed to bring a proposal forward to this effect at the last Annual Delegate Meeting.
Geographical imbalance
Although chapels will have the same voting rights as branches they will not be allowed to vote in elections for ADM-elected bodies. This is to ensure that there is no geographical over-representation or imbalance in favour of a particular branch.
Proposed model Standing Orders for group chapels will also be introduced to allow each chapel to elect a delegate as part of its business prior to any ADM or SDM.
