Trade union representatives play a crucial role in advocating for the interests of their members. Three key responsibilities of a trade union representative are:

1. Representing Members in Disputes: Representatives act as a liaison between members and the employer, helping to resolve disputes and grievances. Importance: This ensures that members' concerns are heard and addressed fairly, preventing unfair treatment.
2. Negotiating Collective Agreements: Representatives participate in negotiations with the employer to secure better terms and conditions of employment for members. Importance: This directly impacts members' wages, benefits, and working conditions, leading to improved welfare.
3. Providing Advice and Support: Representatives provide advice and support to members on a range of issues, including disciplinary procedures, redundancy, and employment rights. Importance: This empowers members to understand their rights and navigate workplace challenges effectively, ensuring they are treated fairly and legally.

These responsibilities are vital for ensuring that members' rights are protected and that they receive fair treatment in the workplace.

A trade union is an organisation formed by employees in a particular industry or occupation to protect their interests. It acts as a collective voice for workers, aiming to improve their terms and conditions of employment.

Two key functions of a trade union for its members are:

• Negotiation of Wages and Benefits: Trade unions negotiate with employers on behalf of their members to secure better wages, improved benefits (such as pensions and healthcare), and more favourable working conditions. This often involves collective bargaining.
• Protection of Employment Rights: Trade unions provide support and representation to members who face unfair dismissal, disciplinary action, or other employment grievances. They can assist with grievance procedures and legal representation if necessary.

Strike action is a powerful tool for trade unions, but it carries both risks and rewards for employees. Here are three potential advantages and three potential disadvantages:

Advantages:

• Increased Bargaining Power: A strike can exert pressure on the employer to concede to the union's demands. Example: The employer may be more willing to negotiate if production is halted.
• Public Awareness and Support: A strike can raise public awareness of the issues faced by employees and garner public support for the union's cause. Example: Media coverage and public demonstrations can put pressure on the employer.
• Achieving Significant Gains: A successful strike can lead to significant improvements in wages, working conditions, or other areas of concern. Example: The union might secure a substantial pay increase or improved health and safety measures.

Disadvantages:

• Loss of Income: Employees participating in a strike will lose their wages during the strike period. Example: This can create financial hardship for individuals and families.
• Risk of Dismissal: In some circumstances, employees participating in an illegal strike may face dismissal. Example: If the strike is deemed unlawful by a court, the employer may have grounds to dismiss striking workers.
• Damage to Employer Relations: A strike can damage the relationship between the union and the employer, making future negotiations more difficult. Example: The employer may be less willing to compromise after a strike.