The conference has gone really well with lots of interesting propositions, good speeches, good debates and lots of first time speakers.
There have been six card votes which has kept the Midlands division busy.
I would like to say how I voted in the six card votes and why the decision to vote that way was made.
Card vote 1 - proposition number 27 - prostitution.
This proposition was discussed with members at my work place and discussions at adm with other delegates.
We felt that the proposition would create a safer working environment with vastly improved health and safety for the women concerned compared to how prostitution happens now so I voted in favour.
Voted in favour - 206,938 = 56.56%
Voted against - 158,939 = 43.44%
Card vote 2 - Special delegate meeting - S1.
This proposition was discussed at a branch meeting and the majority were in favour.
Voted in favour 274,865 = 74.66%
Voted against 93,280 = 25.34%
Card vote 3 - proposition 58 - Care and residential homes.
This proposition called for cctv to be introduced into care homes and residential homes. This was to ensure residents are not mistreated.
I fully agreed with this proposition and voted in favour.
Voted in favour 215,610 = 59.48%
Voted against 146,885 = 40.52%
Card vote 4 - proposition 61 - drug testing of health professionals.
This proposition called for random drug testing in the medical profession such as staff in hospitals.
I agreed with this so I voted in favour.
Voted in favour 223,405 = 61.96%
Voted against 137,161 = 38.04%
Card vote 5 - proposition 84 - learner drivers.
This proposition called for all learner drivers to only be allowed to have lessons in cars with dual controls until they have had at least six lessons with an accredited driving instructor.
The proposition is aimed at stopping a learner driver getting behind the wheel of a family members car on the road with no way of the family member being able to take control of the car should the need arise.
I fully supported this proposition so I voted in favour.
Voted in favour 195,088 = 54.75%
Voted against 161,220 = 45.25%
Card vote 6 - proposition 86 - mobile phones in aeroplanes.
This proposition called for the use of all mobile phones and laptops to be banned during flights due to the risk of affecting the planes navigation instruments, arming explosive devices and the disruption caused to passengers when people call, text or play games on the device.
I got up to speak against this proposition.
People have been allowed to use electronic devices on planes for many years except take off and landing. It is also hard to receive a signal while in flight so I don't imagine many calls would be taking place.
I voted against this proposition.
Voted in favour 153,938 = 43.35%
Voted against 201,178 = 56.65%
I also moved a proposition that was in the equalities debate on Monday 27th April 2015.
My proposition was number 102 -antenatal appointments.
This proposition called for paid release for fathers to attend all antenatal appointments with their wife or partner.
The proposition is asking for amendments to be made to the children and families act 2014 so that fathers are given equal rights to attend all antenatal appointments like the mother is.
The proposition was supported by the USDAW EC and was voted and carried unanimously by the delegates at adm.
It is always good to have speakers for and against propositions as this creates an interesting debate and on some occasions can change delegates decision in voting.
There have been lots of fringe events taking place and lots of receptions in the evenings.
It's always good to catch up with old friends that you have met through USDAW. I have caught up with several old friends this week who I haven't seen for a few years.
I'm now looking forward to starting in my position of USDAW divisional councillor in the Midlands and working along side all of the other USDAW divisional councillors in the Midlands.
