UNISONActive is an unofficial blog produced by UNISON activists for UNISON activists. Bringing news, briefings and events from a progressive left perspective.

Friday 17 September 2010

European Trade Union Day of Action on 29 September 2010: 100,000 workers to demonstrate in Brussels‏

The European Trade Union Confederation (ETUC), in reaction to the austerity measures in force in a number of European countries, is sponsoring a major European mobilisation on 29 September, with support from all its member organisations. Around 100,000 people are expected to take to the streets in Brussels and protest actions will also be held in different European countries.

A major day of action organised by the European trade union movement will be held on 29 September. Trade union delegations from across Europe will march in the streets of Brussels to protest against austerity measures. Employees cannot be the only ones to pay for the irresponsible speculation of certain financial institutions. In parallel with the Euro-demonstration in Brussels, a general strike will be held in Spain and protest movements are planned in Portugal, Italy, Latvia, Poland, Cyprus, Romania, Czech Republic, Lithuania and Serbia. The effort of the trade union organisations is focused on the Euro-demonstration in Brussels, which will include a strong presence of Belgian trade unions, but also delegations from France, Germany, Luxembourg, Austria, Finland, Greece, Hungary, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Romania, the United Kingdom, Norway, etc. The European industry federations will also participate in the Euro-demonstration.

ETUC General Secretary John Monks commented: "On 29 September, we will demonstrate to voice our concern over the economic and social context, which will be compounded by austerity measures. We are particularly alarmed over unemployment and rising inequalities. To cope with increasing precariousness, priority must be given to quality jobs. This is the message that we intend to transmit to European Commission President Mr Barroso, whom we will meet after the demonstration. "

Call to demonstrate: http://www.etuc.org/IMG/pdf_Tracte_A4_EN_DEF4.pdf

Link to the page dedicated to the European Day of Action: http://www.etuc.org/a/7407