Not so the Women of the Waterfront. Chair and vice-chair Doreen McNally and Ann Morris were at the Public, Tax and Commerce union conference in Scarborough.
'It was a very big and formal affair, quite awe-inspiring,' said Doreen. 'I conquered my nerves by telling myself: these people want to know what's happening, and I know I am telling the truth.'
Exactly the right approach! WOW members speak straight and clear about the dockers' fight.
Doreen explained: 'We tell them how our lives were torn to shreds by the tyranny and abuse of the Mersey Docks and Harbour Company. We explain that the Liverpool dockers are entitled to support from all trade unionists.
'That's what it's all about. Nobody is safe in their employment now, and complacency costs jobs!
'We report that since we took up the fight alongside our men we have moved in leaps and bounds. We know we have a voice - a voice to be heard.'
This was the first time Doreen and Ann had been on a delegation together. They felt that it had gone very well.
'Ann is quite an extrovert. She soon knew everyone and his dog!' said Doreen.
The conference unanimously carried a resolution supporting the sacked dockers and took a bucket-collection. 'Thanks to one and all!'
WOW members are still going round the country. They will speak anywhere, any time, any place. Next issue we will hear from Tricia Hall on the delegation to France.
WOW meetings every Wednesday, 7 p.m., Transport House, Islington, Liverpool.
Donations welcome! Payable to WOW c/o Transport House, Islington, Liverpool, 3K 8EQ; or by credit transfer to: Women of the Waterfront Account No: 90148555, Barclays Bank, Sort Code 201084
