THOUSANDS MARCH AGAINST CUTS

by Chris Bartter

Thousands of public service workers and service users took to the streets of Glasgow on April 10 in the highest profile action against public service cuts yet delivered by UNISON.

The March and Rally was part of UNISON’s Public Works campaign, The Scottish arm of the union’s million voices campaign aimed at changing the way our economy is run, and ensuring that those who deliver and those who depend on public services aren’t sacrificed because of the greed of bankers.

The 2,500 marchers made a big impact as the UNISON Kinneil Band led them around Glasgow’s West End. The display of flags and banners helped to make a powerful show on the BBC news, where the march was top of the news agenda.

At the final Rally, Mike Kirby, UNISON’s Scottish Convenor summarised the level of cuts that communities across Scotland were facing. “UNISON branches are telling us that cuts are already impacting on people from the cradle to the grave”, he said.

“Fewer full time places will be available for under fives in Edinburgh. Classroom assistants hours are being cut in Falkirk, Dumfries & Galloway, Highland, Inverclyde, and others.

“Many communities will see their mobile library service withdrawn, eg in Falkirk, Clackmannan and Moray. If you find yourself out of work due to the recession, better get yourself up to speed on how the benefit system works as Welfare Rights Units are cut back or closed in Aberdeen, Glasgow, and East Lothian.

“The cost of meals on wheels for the elderly and vulnerable is going up in the Borders.

“And the cuts don’t stop when you die as the cost of being buried or cremated is increased to more closely reflect charges at private crematoria in Fife.

“No-one is exempt.” This was backed up by speakers from most services in which UNISON members work, and support from other trade unions - particularly PCS and GMB.

Grahame Smith, STUC General Secretary also came to bring support from the whole Trade Union movement in Scotland.

UNISON’s UK President, Gerry Gallacher came up from London to deliver his support and the support of UNISON’s General Secretary. Dave Prentis was addressing a similar rally in London.

Gerry said, “In Glasgow and in London our key message is that public services should not suffer because of the bank bailout. “Our members didn’t cause the crash, and neither did the people we serve every day in communities across Scotland.”

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