NEWS RELEASE Friday, 05 November 2004 For immediate release
Minister launches the first annual STUC Disabled Workers' Conference
Malcolm Chisholm, Minister for Communities will tomorrow (Saturday 6 November 2004) launch the first STUC Disabled Workers' Conference. The conference will address a range of issues facing disabled people in Scotland today, within and without the workplace.
Speaking on the eve of the Conference, Bill Speirs, STUC General Secretary said:
"The statistics tell a grim story: 20% of the working age population in Scotland are disabled but the unemployment rate for disabled people is almost double that for non-disabled people. One in three working age adults in Glasgow are claiming incapacity benefits. Only 2% of public appointments are held by disabled people."
"The first annual STUC Disabled Workers Conference signals an upping of the ante within the trade union movement in Scotland. Trade unions will demonstrate that unions can work by helping people into work and helping them sustain work. Government and stakeholders must work together to ensure that Scotland no longer ignores this criminal waste of capable and willing workers".
Scottish Executive minister for Communities, Malcolm Chisholm, said:
"I am delighted to launch the first STUC Disabled Workers Conference. The Scottish Executive looks forward to working with the STUC and their affiliated trade unions who are uniquely placed to assist their disabled members in the workplace. It is crucial that we help more disabled Scots into employment".
Ends
Notes
Stats courtesy of DRC
For further information contact Stephen Boyd