Demonstration to Reinstate Karen Reissmann November 24, 2007

Join the demonstration in support of Karen Reissmann.
1pm Peace Gardens near Town Hall, Manchester

Karen Reissmann Sacked For Speaking Out

On Monday November 5th Karen Reissmann, CPN and UNISON branch chair was sacked on 4 counts. Firstly that, when she was interviewed in December 2006 criticising the transfer of NHS work to the voluntary sector, she brought the Trust into disrepute. Secondly, for telling people that she was suspended and what for. Thirdly, for protesting her innocence. Fourthly, for allowing the press to print information, some misleading about her case. The fifth charge of misusing time was dropped. All the charges were gross misconduct and all sackable offences.

UNISON believes this is an absolute disgrace. Union reps must have the right to campaign against cuts and victimisation of our trade union reps. The Human Rights Act brought in by the Labour government allows for freedom of expression. Karen works in the NHS, in 2007, in Britain not Burma – she must have the right to speak out without fear of persecution. If she remains sacked it will make all NHS staff and all trade union reps feel much more cautious about saying anything.

UNISON is determined to fight for Karen's reinstatement. 150 members of her branch who work in community mental health teams and crisis resolution teams started an indefinite strike from Thursday 8th November as part of that fight.

Transport:
A bus organised by Merseyside TUC will take supporters to the demonstration of NHS workers in St Peter's Square in Manchester at 1pm.

Transport from Liverpool.
Tickets are priced at only £1 return and will leave Liverpool Lime Station at 11.30am and return at 4.30pm. Seats can be booked through Danny McGowan on 07783379240 or through the Merseyside TUC Office on 0151 666 1999.

Official Website: http://reinstate-karen.org/1.html