Key politicians mark UNISON Parliament event

Andy Kerr MSP, Minister for Health and Community Care, and Shona Robison MSP, Opposition spokesperson on Health, came together in a rare display of unity to speak at a UNISON organised event during the STUC's Trade Union week at the Scottish Parliament.

The two politicians went back to their days working for the public services to draw lessons on the current running of Scotland's public services. Both worked in local government before being elected to Parliament - indeed both worked for Glasgow City Council!

They faced lively and sharp questioning from UNISON activists from Health and Local Government on topics as diverse as public service trusts, shared services and, of course, PFI/PPP.

They, in turn, contrasted the public services they inherited in taking their seats in the Parliament, with the position now.

Lilian Macer, UNISON Scotland's Vice Convenor, who chaired the meeting, said, "It says much for UNISON's standing with politicians of all parties that two senior opponents are prepared to sit down at the same meeting and seriously discuss the issues that face us. We look forward to continuing this dialogue and advancing our Revitalise agenda as we approach the Election. "

UNISON also ran a stall in the Parliament, alongside the STUC, who also ran a series of meetings, receptions and other events in the first ever Trade Union Week.

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