Unions take issue with Assemblies Bill

Editorial Department • Published 22 Jul 2010 16:00 0 Comments

Dear Sir -We the undersigned collectively representing Trade Unions in Fermanagh, take issue with the political parties particularly (SF/DUP) who attempted last week to justify the draft Bill on Assemblies and Protest. Trade Unions have a vested interest in issues affecting its members' democratic rights to assemble, campaign or protest. This Bill, which we must point out, has not had public consultation and is an affront to that right. As Trade Unionists representing all workers rights, any aspect of the regulation of Public Assemblies, Parades and Protests which has implications for the human rights and civil liberties of our members, activists, representatives and officials is of crucial importance to us. The Working Group supposedly set-up to deal with contentious parades has become disproportionate and off focus. This Bill is not the solution as it is totally unworkable and we would say, any proposed changes to the current regulatory system for Public Assemblies, Parades and Protests goes to the heart of all Trade Union activities, which undoubtedly has an impact upon the freedom of association and expression.

Would the DUP and SF now like to tell all the Quinn protesters that their legislation would not have permitted them to rally unless they gave OFMDFM and the PSNI 37 days notice otherwise face six months in prison and/or a £5,000 fine?

Unlike what Councillors Flanagan and Brimstone are attempting to suggest to the electorate, this Bill even if amended is totally unworkable. It is a direct assault on the freedoms of Trade Unions and others to conduct and participate in any legitimate Assemblies, Parades and Protests. It very much appears to be an attempt to silence the Trade Union movement and anyone else who would 'dare' voice their concerns at any public service cuts within public settings. People should be aware of political spin.

Yours faithfully,

Pearse McGovern CWU

Benny Cassidy Unison

Tweet

This letter appeared in Impartial Reporter 22 Jul 10

Post a comment

Your Comment:

Registered users log in here

Username or email

Password

You must be logged in to post. If you have not registered with us, please do so now.

Registration only takes a few minutes. Registered users do not have to complete word verification once logged in and can also take part in competitions and other registered user only features of the site.

Word Verification:
Enter the text as shown.

Return to the main index, get more from this section or browse our Opinion archives.