Glenn Fowler runs for Australian Education Union branch president amid allegations

Glenn Fowler was secretary of the Australian Education Union ACT branch for nine years, but was stood down in March after the union executive received "a number of complaints".

Mr Fowler was charged under the union rules following an independent investigation into the allegations.

The nature of the allegations are not publicly known, but Mr Fowler previously said he would be "vigorously defending" himself against the charges.

Mr Fowler said on Tuesday he was a candidate for branch president in the election, which is set to run from December 2 to January 13.

"I'm genuinely passionate about the public education system that we've built here in Canberra," Mr Fowler said.

"I have dedicated my life to getting the best possible recognition for teachers' work because there's nothing more important.

"The coronavirus period has shown we are the glue that keeps the community together. I'm constantly in awe of what teachers accomplish and I want to see our union continue to be strong.

"Members know that I'm the best person to lead them into bargaining in 2022."

He said a pay rise, increase to superannuation payments and reduction in face-to-face teaching hours would be priorities in the enterprise agreement negotiations.

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Mr Fowler said he could not talk about the matter he was charged with, but he did say he was confident of a positive resolution.

The branch rules committee is set to deliver a report on the matter to the executive, who will determine what action will be taken in relation to the charges.

Mr Fowler said it was almost certain that process wouldn't be complete before the election.

"The whole situation is not ideal," he said.

For the first time, the role of president will be a full-time paid position. Previously branch secretary was the only elected full-time role.

The AEU ACT branch will also elect a new branch secretary, one TAFE sector vice-president and two school sector vice-presidents.

Angela Burroughs is the current branch president. The other candidates for president and secretary are not publicly known.

Acting branch secretary Vince McDevitt was contacted for comment but did not respond by deadline.

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