Welcome on board: trade union representatives

The Glasgow Colleges’ Regional Board welcomed trade union representatives at their Board meeting for the first time this week.

The Scottish Government has asked that all College Boards have trade union board members by 2020. 

Glasgow College Regional Board offered observer status to union representatives, ahead of formal arrangements being introduced.

Chris Greenshields, chair of UNISON Scotland’s further education committee, and Frances Curran, trade union executive member of EIS FELA, joined GCRB Board Members, college principals and the GCRB team at City of Glasgow College for the meeting. 

Janie McCusker, Chair of Glasgow Colleges’ Regional Board, said: “The inclusion of trade union representatives is a very positive development, which will both enhance the Glasgow staff voice in discussions and support increased diversity of thought.”

Chris (pictured), chair of UNISON Scotland’s further education committee, said: "It is important that there is a trade union voice in decision making on College Boards. The Scottish Government recognises this in terms of its Fair Work agenda and will enact provision for trade union seats on every College Board in 2020. This interim arrangement with the Glasgow Regional Board is welcome and is an important first step."

Frances (pictured), trade union executive member of EIS FELA, said: "I'm delighted to represent the lecturers' trade union, the EIS, on the Board. As a union we have long argued for the people who do the teaching to have a direct say about college provision, governance and accountability."

The Glasgow Colleges' Regional Board meets on a quarterly basis to discuss the region's funding, planning, performance and collaborative approach.