Long-time delegate for the Mid North Coast Sub Branch, English and history teacher Mary Murtagh is off on long service leave next year and will not be attending IEU Council so regularly, although she will still look in occasionally. Here Mary reflects on her many years attending Council.
“Attending Council meetings has afforded me the opportunity to really see how well the IEU functions as a union, which always works for the benefit of its members.
“The professionalism of those employed to represent members’ interests in negotiations with employers, and to advocate on their behalf with government authorities regarding curriculum and legislation, has been more than evident in the reports presented at every meeting that I have attended. These are matters that impact members in their professional and personal lives.
“The depth of the expertise of those people who have held these positions over the years has always filled me with confidence that members are well served by their union.
“The fact that the constitutional structure of the union provides for input from members at Chapter, Branch and Council levels on matters that impact upon members’ industrial and professional rights makes the IEU a highly effective representative organisation.
“Having been a delegate to Council since the 1990s I am able to attest to the professionalism and integrity of the officers and executive who have served the IEU over all that time.
“All members should have confidence in the transparency of the financial dealings of the organisation and be assured that the union advocates for and supports its members interests in an ethical and inclusive manner.
“I am proud of the positions taken by the IEU in respect of human rights issues over the years and feel that this broader engagement in issues that impact our society has always been considered and purposeful.
“I have been coming to Council since ‘The Gazebo’ and have enjoyed the opportunities presented to me to have input into this wonderful union on behalf of the members of the Mid North Coast Sub Branch.
“Hope to see you at the March Council.”
Regina Bryan, who also retired this year after many years of loyal service to the IEU, preferred not to be interviewed. We wish her all the best in her retirement.