13th January 2010, 02:50 PM
In terms of incentive, Chris Alan bought me a pint when I joined.
However, it probably is beyond the influence of the union to turn short term into longer term contracts. They might do more to influence the terms on conditions though; like Jasper points out on H&S. Also, if the union is recognised and is able to negotiate better T&Cs, like better sickpay or holiday conditions, these will apply to all staff not just the permamnent ones.
On another point, some people are sayuing that they would only join a union when there is a crisis. My old man was a branch secretary for many years, and he was always having people come and ask for help right at teh end of a massive long constructive dismissal process, which had sometimes been strung out over a couple of years, i.e. after they had actually been fired. The union will always try to help you, but they can't represent you if you're not a member. But even these non-members were benefitting from union negotiated contracts, as it was a workplace which recognised the union.
However, it probably is beyond the influence of the union to turn short term into longer term contracts. They might do more to influence the terms on conditions though; like Jasper points out on H&S. Also, if the union is recognised and is able to negotiate better T&Cs, like better sickpay or holiday conditions, these will apply to all staff not just the permamnent ones.
On another point, some people are sayuing that they would only join a union when there is a crisis. My old man was a branch secretary for many years, and he was always having people come and ask for help right at teh end of a massive long constructive dismissal process, which had sometimes been strung out over a couple of years, i.e. after they had actually been fired. The union will always try to help you, but they can't represent you if you're not a member. But even these non-members were benefitting from union negotiated contracts, as it was a workplace which recognised the union.