In a statement today The People Before Profit Alliance extended its full support to public sector workers on strike. This government wants to make workers pay for the crisis by cutting wages and services. We say its now time to say stop.
Councillor Richard Boyd Barrett said “The government has launched an onslaught on public sector workers with the intention of cutting wages and jobs. Yet almost half of public sector workers earn less than the average industrial wage. These workers should not be targeted but those who have gained most from the Celtic Tiger.
Above: Workers on pickets across the country as 250,000 hit the streets
There should be no cuts in public services. In this crisis, working people, in both the private and public sectors, and the unemployed will be even more dependent on vital public services. They should not be cut. It is time now to call a halt. Tomorrow must be the first step in a determined campaign of protest and work stoppages to get rid of this government.”
At a recent meeting of Dublin City Council a motion, proposed by People Before Profit Councillor Brid Smith, was passed in support of public sector workers especially those working for the Council. The motion stated: The services provided by council workers are essential to Dublin City and it is imperative that these services remain, many workers in the public sector are not on large wages or comfortable pension’s, many are low paid workers, on contracts and do not have a pension.
Councillor Smith said today “If the government has its way vital services on which my constituents depend will be cut. Cuts will cause hardship and pain for the many. Its is outrageous that low paid council workers are being asked to make huge sacrifices while the rich developer friends of the government get off scott free.”
Councillor Joan Collins, also of Dublin City Council said
“Only a determined campaign of protest and industrial action can protect us from further attacks. Today’s public sector strike should be only the start of a campaign of industrial action. We believe that today’s strike should have been accompanied by demonstrations
to show the scale of the action and to allow private sector workers, the unemployed and others dependant on social welfare, and campaigners against cuts in public services to take part and show their opposition to this government.
A date should now be set for a national day of action, including strike action by public and private sector workers, and with a mass mobilisation to march on the Dail. It is now clear that there is no partnership. The trade union leaders should get out of the talks and lead the people in a real fight to get rid of this cruel and heartless government”
The People Before Profit Alliance is calling for:
· A major programme of job creation to get people back to work.
· A levy on the super rich (the top 5% who own 40% of all wealth).
· An increase in the top rate of tax for individuals earning more than €100,000 a year.
· No cuts for those on low and middle incomes and those on social welfare.
· No cuts in public services.
For more information contact Eddie Conlon 087 6775468