Alocal union (often shortened tolocal), inNorth America,[1] orunion branch (known as alodge in some unions), in theUnited Kingdom and other countries, is a local branch (or chapter) of a usually nationaltrade union. The terms used for sub-branches of local unions vary from country to country and include "shop committee", "shop floor committee", "board of control", "chapel", and others.
Local branches are organised to represent the union's members from a particular geographic area, company, or business sector. Local unions have their own governing bodies which represent the interests of the national union while at the same time responding to the desires of their constituents, and organise regular meetings for members. Local branches may also affiliate to a localtrades council.
In theUnited States andCanada, local unions are usually numbered (e.g. CWA Local 2101[2] inBaltimore, Maryland or ILA Local 273[3] inSaint John, New Brunswick). In the United Kingdom, they are usually named by geographical location (e.g. Manchester Branch), but may also have a name and a number (e.g. Manchester No.2 Branch) or have a more specific name (e.g. Manchester Fitters Branch) if there is more than one branch in a town. Some unions (e.g.Transport and General Workers' Union) number their branches as well as naming them.
In the Britishprinting industry, union branches are traditionally divided into sub-branches known as "chapels", led by theFather of the Chapel. Each chapel represents members in a single printing works or department of a larger works.
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