OBITUARY: Douglas Hay - Councillor and Trade Unionist

Dougie Hay had a varied and colourful career. Born in Springburn, he served his apprenticeship as a joiner with Wylie and Lochhead, then worked in the shipyards for nearly 30 years, first at John Browns and then at Upper Clyde Shipbuilders.

Elected a shop steward for UCATT, he was involved in the famous UCS "Work In" in the early 70's. He was a full time official of NUPE from 1978-1994 when he took early retirement following the mergers which created UNISON. He was Glasgow organiser of the Labour Party in 1975.

He served as a councillor for Baillieston from 1978 - 1999 when he stood down. He was elected again last year.

This potted history belies the depth of his strengths. He was a master craftsman, always in demand for 'homers'. His large collection of working tools which he exhibited included both modern and valuable antiques. He built prize winning floats for Mayday processions and the Miners Gala.

It was a matter of great pride to him that both his son Gavin and grandson Martin followed him into his trade. As a trade union official he was diligent and compassionate.

He dealt with members' individual problems thoroughly and with patience, knowing how important it was to them. He was always available day or night to help out in a crisis.

These attributes he also practiced as a councillor. Despite his busy work and public office duties, he had an active social life: hill walker, skier, an interest in books and good music, and always fond of a good argument.

Supporter of umpteen good causes, he initiated the Annual John Smith Walk in memory of the former Labour Leader. Underpinning all he did was his happy family life, his love and commitment to his wife Janet, his daughters Kirsty and Shona, his son Gavin, their partners and seven grandchildren. He remained active till shortly before his death.

A stalwart supporter of our NHS, he was closely involved in this year's celebrations of its 60th Anniversary. His great hero was Aneurin Bevan, who helped found the NHS and he initiated the former Strathclyde Region Headquarters being renamed Nye Bevan House.

As a shop steward and union official, Dougie fought for safe conditions in the workplace. It is ironic and very sad that he died of mesothemiola from asbestos exposure, most likely from working in the shipyards more than 40 years ago. The same disease killed John McDonald MP, another ex ship worker, just a few months ago.

I get extremely angry when I hear politicians glibly talking about cutting red tape for business. We need better health and safety regulations, stiffer penalties and more adequate compensation if we are to assist victims and families and prevent more tragedies in the future.

It was a privilege and pleasure to be a colleague and friend of Dougie for more than 30 years. He had a life long anger against injustice and a passionate commitment to the interests of working people and their families.

The Labour and Trade Union Movement have lost a loyal and steadfast comrade, his constituents an honest and hardworking representative, his friends a good and true pal, and his family a loving husband, father, father in law and grandfather.

Bob Thomson, Former Associate Scottish Secretary, UNISON Past Chairman/ Treasurer, Scottish Labour Party.

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