We showed that we were willing to defend our right to job security and decent wages and conditions. Why delegates are important Union delegates are the link between members and the Union office. Representing your fellow workers can be very satisfying and rewarding. Delegates work closely together with members and the Union organiser to make sure the Union is strong at each workplace. Our own research shows clearly that where we have delegates members participate more in Union activities.
Delegates are also our most effective recruiters.
However recruiting members is not our only challenge. We also need to build active members. We need members who are aware of their rights, can recognise and respond to problems and can act collectively giving them both voice and strength in the workplace. That activism doesn't just happen. It is most effectively triggered by workplace delegates.