Unionisation, Archaeology & the Maritime Profession

Dissatisfaction with the current state of land based professional (contractor) archaeology has led to a boom in number of members of the archaeology branch of the trades union Prospect (formerly IPMS) and an increase in the number of Archaeological Trusts and companies that have recognized the union for the purposes of collective bargaining. Prospects links with both the IFA and central government put it in the unique position of being able to play a real role, not only in the protection of employees rights but also in effecting change in the way we undertake archaeology within the UK. As yet Prospect has very little contact with the maritime arm of the profession but is seeking to address this issue in the hope of building a collaborative partnership that will further the aims of everyone within the archaeological profession. This paper will outline the structure of the Heritage Sector of Prospect, discuss recent developments and initiatives and assess the potential for a Trades Union such as Prospect to become involved in the maritime archaeological profession.