The dictionary defines "vigilance" as the close observation of people whose actions may cause harm or damage. The drive of the stevedoring and shipping companies to increase their profits sees our conditions going backwards. Casualisation and the undermining of rosters and job security damage our rights to a secure job.

The word "vigilance" has a long and proud history in union movements here and abroad. Vigilance Officers were elected officials of the former Waterside Workers Federation (WWF - now part of the MUA). "VO's" regularly visited the wharves to ensure the maintenance of conditions and a safe working environment.

"Vigilance movements" sprung up in the British bus and rail unions during the 1930's. Rank & file unionists organised to fight against the decision by union leaders to cave in to the harsh demands of transport bosses.

This newsletter will not only argue the case for militant, democratic unions to defend workers’ rights. It will also argue for unions to take a stand on all political issues - justice for refugees, opposition to the war on Iraq, women’s rights - and promote pro-worker and socialist policies. The regular publication of this newsletter will - in its own small way - follow in the same tradition of the rank & file Vigilance movements of the past.