About Us
A GMB Branch consists of all the members of a given geographical area or, in large workplaces or specific sections of industry, a branch may be workplace-based. The D15 Dwr Cymru Welsh Water Branch is workplace-based. It exists for members that work for Dwr Cymru Welsh Water and its Partner RPS.
Who We Are
D15 Branch is structured like all other GMB branches, with the following Officers:
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Branch Secretary - Michael Wilson
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President - Nigel Evans
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Branch Youth Officer - David Smith
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Branch Equality Officer - David Smith
All Branch Officers are elected every four years and are usually volunteers. These individuals are not employed by the GMB but work on behalf of the GMB to provide advice and support to those members belonging to their branch.
What does the branch do
As already mentioned, we exist for the benefit of all our members. The GMB operates in a unique way in that change, issues and action are driven from the bottom up. In effect this means that each member is the most important cog in the big GMB wheel.
The branch is there to support, advise and improve the skills and working conditions of its members. The support etc given is determined by the members. The branch also helps with any work-related issues and negotiations between employer and employees.
Monthly Branch Meetings
Although, members issues can be brought to our attention at any time, more formally the branch meets once a month to discuss and agree on members relevant concerns.
All branch members are welcome to attend. Currently this meeting takes place virtually. In ‘normal’ times we hold face-to-face meeting.
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Regular topics discussed are usually centred around:
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Training and Education for members
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Current workplace issues and any campaigns
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Wider relevant issues
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Community involvement (e.g. local sponsorships, liaison with local community groups etc)
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Equality Issues
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Numbers of Reps / Health & Safety Reps / Learning Reps etc
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Recruitment of New Members / Branch Finances
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Any social events organised by the Branch for Members
Additionally, it often the case to discuss and possibly vote on specific points, for example:
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Nominating a delegate(s) to attend Congress*
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Local motions to be forwarded to Congress*
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Involvement with local Trades Councils
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Nominating for the GMB Regional Council
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Nominating for the GMB General Secretary
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* The motions proposed and agreed at Congress are what drives the national agenda of the GMB as a whole. Some of these motions could be escalated and influence the agenda of political parties or indeed the current Government.
Our Region
The D15 Dwr Cymru Welsh Water Branch is part of GMB’s Wales and South West Region. There are 7 Regions in total within the GMB.
Our branch, and its members would be supported by GMB staff from this region. Our main link would be with our Regional Officer, who is now Nicola Savage.
The Regional Secretary (GMB’s most senior position within the Region) is currently:
Ruth Brady.