**As the Assembly prepares to debate and vote on the principles of the Trade Union Freedom Bill on Tuesday, People Before Profit MLA Gerry Carroll, who introduced the piece of legislation, spoke of the importance of workers’ rights in the current period, and why he hopes this Bill will be a lightning rod for the trade union movement.
Gerry will be joined by trade unionists at 1pm in a rally for workers’ rights – calling on all MLAs to back the Bill.
Gerry said:**
“The Stormont Assembly has never debated a Bill quite like the Trade Union Freedom Bill. In fact, it is the first time any MLA has attempted to remedy anti-trade union legislation which stems back to Margaret Thatcher and her attacks on striking workers.
“The Bill is historical in that sense, but more important is the groundbreaking impact I believe it can have for hundreds of thousands of workers today. It will enable more workers’ to join trade unions, to fight back on a broader range of conditions, and to stand in solidarity with other workers doing the same.
“This couldn’t be more timely, as families and communities are suffering through a cost of living crisis with prices soaring and pay stagnating. I hope this Bill will be a lightning rod for the trade union movement, to get more workplaces organised than ever, and to fight for the decent pay and conditions everyone deserves, especially after the pandemic.
“From nurses to bakers, education staff, hostel workers, and more, workers who braved a pandemic are being forced to take industrial action over pay or deteriorating conditions. I am very pleased to have the support of their unions, as I drive home a Bill that can embolden their struggles and see them win.
“I am calling on all parties to also stand with these workers and their unions, by supporting and prioritising the Trade Union Freedom Bill.”
ENDS