Huge support for MyCSP Megapicket

Supporters from across the union movement came along to support the picketers outside the MyCSP office in Liverpool today.

 

Fran Heathcote, PCS general secretary addressed the picket line, saying: “It’s week thirteen now and we really need the employer now to get round the table.

 

“The show of strength and determination that you are all showing is all going to help. The NEC is completely behind you and we will support you for as long as it takes.

 

“I am really proud today that we’ve got people along to show you solidarity because all of this is about us sticking up for each other, standing together and making sure that we win.”

 

Paul Nowak, the TUC general secretary had a clear message for MyCSP: “It is time to do right by PCS members, acknowledge and recognise PCS as the trade union for MyCSP.”

 

He said: “We are committed as the TUC, both regionally and nationally, to do whatever we can to support PCS in this dispute, having a union voice, having union recognition is an absolute fundamental right and we’re going to stand by your side until you get it.”

 

Paul added that it was time for MyCSP to respect the views of staff and recognise the union. 

 

Jo Grady, UCU general secretary brought solidarity from her union. She told strikers: “Standing together and ensuring that you are seen to back each other in front of your employer is so important.”

 

Referring to UCU’s successful pensions dispute which involved members taking action for nearly three years, she said, “We have been where you are, and we have won disputes. You’ve got to be committed for the long haul and when you are, you can win.”

 

MPs from the PCS parliamentary group including local MPs Ian Byrne and Kim Johnson as well as the group’s chair, John McDonnell also came along to give their solidarity. John told picketers, “The PCS parliamentary group is 100 percent behind you and with you all the way.”

 

Kim Johnson MP said: “I know the strength and resilience of PCS members. Sticking together and showing MyCSP that you are strong and that you will keep going until they do the right thing and they recognise the trade union.”

 

Ian Byrne MP told members he knew how difficult it was being out on strike as he remembered striking for six months. He said, “It’s hard work but you’ve got to keep going. Union recognition is a fundamental human right.”

 

Local rep Gary Wheeler got the biggest applause of the morning for his tireless work to keep the campaign going. Gary gave a big thank you to the members on strike and for the support and full backing from PCS. He said, “The people who are watching are being inspired by what we’re doing. Each week we’re getting stronger and bigger… it’s a proper inspiration.”

 

It wasn’t just words of encouragement that striking members received. TUC north west provided them with some welcome tea and coffee with funds raised through their Solidarity Hub. They had raised over £700 for the strikers just one day after launching the action.