Would you see a Unionised Workforce as a good thing in Archaeology?

[Gilraen]

That was one of the best post replies I have seen on BAJR fed so far, thanks Putt1...

I agree with a lot that you say. Whilst unionisation would be a good thing in archaeology, it has to be backed up by strong representation and more firm national standards. This is something the IfA try to do but never really achieve, because they are not backed up by government legiislation and standards.

[BAJR Host]

Would then a strong Employers Group... (FAME) and a Strong Unionised Workforce... and a strong Policed Standards be an ideal step forward

BAJR Fed could actually become (in part an individuals, self employed and sole traders group ---- offering support)

I will lay some cards on the table... I need around 10 people who would be interested in (or already are) becoming/discussing/starting as 'shop steward/reps'
Discussions are at an early stage, however we have an opportunity here that cannot be missed... one that makes sure WE as a group, ensure WE as a group have a future.
You do not have to look to far into the future where the constant drain and loss of skills from archaeology will have an increasing effect down teh line... where will the experienced archaeologists be? Who will become the POs? or even Supervisors, when everyone has only 3 months xp? Everyone else left... to get a decent job.

2010... the year things changed... or we gave up? you decide. more than a click to vote yes... But a commitment.


So who is with me? OR should I just forget it, and watch archaeology become a lost cause. :face-huh:

contact me... with your location.... info@bajr.org

Thanks to those that have already!:face-approve:

[illumina3]

Firmer national standards - absolutely. Until archaeology is taken seriously at the highest level, and some decent regulations are put in place to stop corners being cut, a union will never have the power to sort out the problems in the profession. However, it would be nice to have the profession seen as such - as a PROFESSION, not a hobby. Yes we do the job because we want to, because we enjoy it (for the most part) and because it's what we believe in, but it's nota bit of volunteering that's got out of control. It is, or should be, a career, and it would be nice to be taken seriously sometimes (I was asked once - "So, when are you going to get a proper job?").

[Windbag]

"I blame the consultants"
Consultant archaeologists tend to enjoy the best pay and working conditions in the profession. That doesn't mean that they are responsible for keeping units' wages low. If consultants were the reason for commercial archaeology being traditionally badly paid, then areas of the country where consultancy work is usually undertaken by units (e.g. Scotland) would have better pay and conditions than elsewhere. But that isn't the case.

[Sparky]

"I blame the consultants" is a simplistic precis of previous posts.

Archaeological consultants should be as responsible as employers in the role to improve pay and conditions in archaeology as a whole. I believe that, if they don't already, they should ensure that the units which they contract conform to the minimum pay scales for archaeologists, enforcable by membership of the IfA.

[BAJR]

Consultants?? Any out there willing to comment...

[BAJR]

WEll just to let people know that apart from passing teh 400 votes mark... things are beginning to move. a meeting is being arranged for 27th February (a Saturday) in Nottingham.

Those that gave me contact details... I'll be in touch this week.. when I have a couple more details... HOWEVER.. this will be a united effort... and a positive one. For all. and I would love to say... I was there at the start!. If anyone else think they could come... or wants to help... please get in touch.

Thanks all... more updates coming

[Sith]

"I blame the consultants" is a simplistic precis of previous posts.

Archaeological consultants should be as responsible as employers in the role to improve pay and conditions in archaeology as a whole. I believe that, if they don't already, they should ensure that the units which they contract conform to the minimum pay scales for archaeologists, enforcable by membership of the IfA.

Sounds fair enough, however, my vetting of contractors tends to be limited more towards whether they are likely to get you killed on site. I do ask for rates to carry out additional work, although the figures don't tell me how much of that rate makes it into the diggers' pocket.

[BAJR]

we are inceasing seeing the need for accountability... and accountability that is both fair and enforceable. AND wait for it... universal... whether you are an IfA RO or a contractor ducking and diving in the in the north of England (for example) and paying people self employed rates which are questionably small

IfA is not an employers organisation, nor is it a union... it can only set standards for archaeological work... and enforce certain conditions on its membership. Now FAME and the unions could work well together... AND ... perhaps it is time to point the finger at those that pay less.

[monty]

Good stuff indeed......point the finger by all means ...but those who pay less continue to get away with it for reasons various....and we all know who they are ...:face-stir: