During the summer of 2016 after the debacle of the LTDA branch election in Harlesdon, general secretary, Steve McNamara freely admitted the discrepancies of that night 'hadn't been LTDA's finest hour, and wouldn't happen again.
Yet yesterday (20/06/18) Chairman Richard Massett announced,(by email) to the chagrin of committed members that the central branch had been temporarily suspended, therefore next Wednesdays branch election (27/06/18) is postponed due to intimidation and threats to candidates.
During the last forty plus years, branch elections have gone by unheralded/unpubicised. Because that's how the LTDA wanted it. They've always been happy to accept our subs and deal with us at the end of a phone line or across a desk. But woe betide anyone who trys to encroach their inner circle.
During the good times we were all guilty of not paying enough attention to the machinations of our trades biggest org. Yet if we've got anything to thank TfL/government/ Uber for, suppose they've necessitated us to 'naval gaze', by paying more attention on our representation. Needless to say, many were not much impressed with what was on offer. Or they, with members insistance on transparency and accountability.
Yes, Steve McNamara is an effective, efficient flag waver on behalf of the trade. But he's at the helm of the 'Mary Celeste'. The dead wood, otherwise known as the COM (Committee of Management). Most of them out of the LTDA 'old boys network'. Devoid of enegy, ideas, motivation. They can't even be bothered to show members respect by occasionally attending branch meetings. Most probably committee meetings behind closed doors pay better.
Regards intimidation and threats. The 2018 campaign had up to now been fought impeccably by all four candidates Martin Franks, Russell Smith for Chairman. Sam Houston, Chris Allen, for Secretary.
I'll put my cards on the table and admit to supporting Russell and Chris. I'll reiterate, up until Harlesden, LTDA had chosen their own. Bit like the Vatican, but with out the smoke. Unfortunately, Martin and Sam are 'all our yesterdays'. Whereas Chris and Russell are totally devoted to improving the trade by improving the LTDA.
So if the impending election does materialise. Whether a show of hands, or secret ballot ( more 'mirrors' then smoke on that one)
For the future of our beloved trade.
DO THE RIGHT THING!