SDLP Foyleside Councillor Mary Durkan
Said the Foyleside councillor: “Events had to be cancelled due to the Covid-19 pandemic, but the creativity and hard work of the organisers made it possible to pull together such an impressive and varied virtual programme covering a wide range of workers’ rights and broader social justice issues. We have an excellent foundation for building upon in future years.
“The pandemic is shining a light on the true value of our workers, particularly those on the frontline.
“We are also seeing the value of trade unions in standing up for workers’ rights and protecting employees’ health and safety.
“This dedicated week in the run up to May Day is an appropriate celebration and tribute to workers across all sectors.
“The full extent of the impact of the virus on workers’ health, human rights and economic interests is not yet known.
“However, we appreciate that trade unions will play an important role in defending workers’ rights and promoting social justice.
“The online lectures provide a good mix in content, covering subjects of local historic interest, such as trade unions and civil rights, and wider social justice issues of today, such as Climate Emergency.
“Programmes such as these not only highlight important issues, but also showcase our rich social history, and provide a platform for local artistic and cultural talent.
Miss Durkan added: “Everyone can get involved by accessing some of the online events.
“Thanks to the Mayor, the Guildhall clock and Council offices will be lit up in red in support of workers on Friday, May 1.
“I would encourage everyone across Derry & Strabane to join DTUC in making “Time for Noise” at 6 pm on that evening.”
All details of events at derrystrabane.com/workersrights
