“Today's magnificent show of solidarity by PCS members across the UK is a clear example of their determination to defend their jobs, conditions and pay. The employer can be left in no doubt that this campaign will continue as long as necessary. The industrial demands put forward by PSC are reasonable and deliverable, if there is a political will to do so. PCS stand ready and willing to enter intonegotiations with our employer, to prevent further disruption and to address the real concerns and fears of our members.”

Janice Godrich PCS President and a member of Solidarity

Solidarity – Scotland’s Socialist Movement salutes the tremendous response by PCS members to yesterday’s strike action. It is clear that there was a massive response by civil servants who were on strike in huge numbers across the UK, including an estimated 90% in
Scotland. The burning anger at job cuts, low pay and the threat of privatisation was evident yesterday. And Solidarity pledges its 100% support for the demands of the PCS and civil service workers:

• A No compulsory redundancy agreement.
• A no compulsory relocation agreement.
• No further privatisation without negotiation and
consultation.
• No attack on Civil service Compensation Scheme
• Adequate resources and decent working conditions.
• A fair national pay system

“Millions of calls are going unanswered every day because of lack of staff. The employer responds by bringing people to tell office workers how to arrange their desks.”

Most of those at the rally then marched to St Enoch’s Square and following a short rally more
than 50 striking PCS members packed into a pub to hear Tommy Sheridan, Rosemary Byrne and Alan Brown a Solidarity members on the PCS National Executive, speak. Dozens of PCS members put their names down to get more information and a number joined Solidarity there and then. It is clear that PCS activists now see Solidarity as the only viable socialist organisation in Scotland.

In Dundee two members of Solidarity spoke at the 100 strong rally. Danny Williamson from the PCS NEC and Jim Malone from the Tayside FBU, who is also standing for Solidarity in the Scottish parliament elections in May. Jim brought a donation of £250 from the Tayside FBU for the striking PCS workers that was warmly received. As Tommy Sheridan said at the Solidarity meeting in Glasgow – “We will stand with the PCS until you win your just case. Solidarity is not just a word; it describes what we are, it is who we are.”