Jimmy Reid RIP‏

Veteran trade unionist and socialist Jimmy Reid has died aged 78, just short of the 40th anniversary of the Upper Clyde shipbuilders work-in, where he played a leading role. On The Guardian’s comment-is-free website Gregor Gall reflects on Reid’s contribution: http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/2010/aug/11/jimmy-reid-true-radical-giant

In an excellent item of labour history, UNISON north west regional organiser Jim Moodie talks about Reid’s inspirational influence when growing up in the Clydeside shipbuilding communities: http://www.unisonnw.org.uk/roots/List/Great_speakers.asp

Matt Smith, Scottish Secretary of UNISON, also paid tribute to Jimmy Reid.

Matt said: “Scottish trade unionists are today mourning the loss of one of our great leaders.

“Jimmy Reid, and the others of the Upper Clyde Shipbuilders shop stewards’ committee, showed what ordinary people can do to change their lives and the lives of many others for the better. They inspired countless others over the years.

“Jimmy Reid was a fighter for Scotland and for the traditions of our public services. I am privileged to have known Jimmy over many years. On behalf of UNISON Scotland, I send deepest sympathy to his family at this great loss.”
http://www.unison-scotland.org.uk/news/2010/julyaug/1108.htm