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Hi everyone,

Here is my report from the most recent meeting of the UNISON Health Service Group Executive, the national committee leading UNISON in the health service, on which I represent the East Midlands region.

Please note especially the following three points:

1. There will shortly be a ballot of all UNISON members in the health service on the new proposals for unsocial hours pay.

2. All UNISON branches are encouraged to organise a short stunt of some kind outside their workplaces on Wednesday, December 5th in support of Karen Reissmann, the UNISON representative sacked recently in Manchester for campaigning against privatisation and cuts. Karen’s appeal against her dismissal is this week, so we need a big show of support to ensure that she is reinstated.

3. There are proposals to change the rules for ill health retirement in the NHS, which could affect many of our members. The proposals are currently subject to a consultation exercise which individuals and their UNISON branches should take part in.

The next UNISON Health Service Group Executive is in the new year, so this will be my last report of 2007. Happy Christmas, everyone, and best wishes for a peaceful and enjoyable 2008.

Nick