Unite Mechanics, a new independent branch within the Unite Union, have held their inaugural AGM, where 9 committee members were elected including a chairman, a secretary, a treasurer, an education officer and an equality officer.

The group began work in the summer, after forming through online meetings and social media and have already launched a series of campaigns.

An education committee has been established, which will represent the needs of apprentices and discuss any issues they may have. Apprentices who retain membership for 3 months will receive a tool kit to help ease the financial pressure on them when buying tools. In coming weeks representatives of Unite Mechanics will meet with senior management in Solas to discuss the apprenticeship curriculum and some of the concerns that apprentice mechanics are having.

Committee members will also be attending an RSA stakeholder’s workshop on road safety to make representations on behalf of their members. They hope to highlight safety concerns that they have identified in relation to vehicle maintenance and repair.  A meeting has also been requested with the HSA with a view to opening another avenue to highlight  safety concerns.

With the support of TD’s and approval from their members at each step, Unite Mechanics are in the process of drafting proposed legislation that will be introduced to the Dáil in the coming months. It will aim to tackle the underlying health and safety issues in the trade and introduce enforceable standards that are common in other trades. They hope it will gain broad support across the political spectrum, due to the governments focus on road safety and the environment.

James Donohoe of Unite Mechanics said, “With mechanics as the driving force, Unite the Union offers mechanics the structure and resources needed to help them improve the trade for themselves. We aim to bring the trade of motor mechanics into line with other trades that have higher standards in relation to safety, salary and regulation. Unite Mechanics are a union of mechanics that want to ensure their future in the trade is secure and rewarding.”

James added, “While they are enthusiastic and passionate about the trade, far too many experienced mechanics are leaving the trade for other industries. It’s unfortunate because there is a shortage of mechanics, but unsurprising because the benefits are not matching skill set that mechanics possess. Mechanics are unable to address the issues in the trade by themselves, which is why we feel we need to come together and raise our concerns as one voice.”