Model motion: Defend Paul Holmes

DEFEND PAUL HOLMES

This branch condemns the decision of Kirklees Council on 2nd of February 2022 to dismiss UNISON National President Paul Holmes.

Paul has been Branch Secretary of the Kirklees UNISON branch for 32 years. 

Paul has been a council employee for 48 years and a Union steward for 46 years. He has a completely unblemished record in his 48 years with the council. The decision to dismiss him is completely indefensible. It follows him being suspended by the council for 2 years and 2 months. 

The investigation into this issue by a private consultant finished 18 months ago.

Paul will not let this issue rest. He could have retired with 48 years’ service, but he is determined to clear his name and let everyone know the real reasons behind his dismissal.

We believe that these reasons are that Paul undertook the activities of an independent trade union, UNISON. No trade union can accept that an employer should dismiss a union representative for carrying out their trade union duties and activities.

We resolve:

1.    To send a message of support and solidarity to Paul Holmes.

2.    To send a protest to the Leader and Chief Executive of Kirklees Council calling upon them to reinstate Paul Holmes.

3.    To send this motion to the general secretary of UNISON, Christina McAnea, calling for UNISON to provide Paul Holmes with the fullest support, using the full resources of the trade union.