Shropshire public sector workers urged to support strike
Public sector workers were today urged to join tomorrow's Day of Action, opposing Government proposals to cut public sector pensions, and so be part of what will be the largest strike in Shropshire’s history.
“Whether you’re a civil servant, a teacher or a lecturer, a nurse or a local government worker, if you work in the public sector you are being asked to work longer and pay more for a smaller pension,” said Steve Bradfield of the Shrewsbury branch of the University and College Union.
“I am a lecturer, my wife is a nurse and my sister is a teaching assistant and we are all going to be hit if the Government proposals go through,” said Steve.
“The strength of feeling amongst public sector workers is palpable and reflects an overwhelming sense of the unfairness of the proposals. The Government does not have a mandate for this. The change from using the retail price index (RPI) with the lower consumer price index (CPI) is going to hit everyone.
Brett Davies, Chair of the Shropshire and Telford Trades Council, said: “I would encourage all public sector workers to support this action and show the Government that workers are not going to be bullied into paying for a deficit caused by irresponsible bankers. People don't realise that they are being asked to pay 3% more for their pensions but the money is going straight into general revenue from taxes, in order to pay off the deficit. Workers are being deceived."
Brett added: "If you haven’t been on strike before, you can feel safe amongst the large numbers taking action on Wednesday. And if you aren’t a member of a union, please consider joining. The more of us there are, the more impact we can have on unjust Government policies. Don't be unwittingly used by the Government. ”
Picket lines will be in action at local colleges and schools and at council and other public sector workplaces such as the prison.
Rally's are to be held in both Shrewsbury and Telford.
