Speaking ahead of debate on the role of trade unions and their engagement with civic society, newly appointed STUC General Secretary Grahame Smith said:
“I am pleased to see the efforts of trade unions being debated in the Scottish Parliament and recognition given to the increasingly important role we play across Scottish society in the 21st Century.
“Few will deny that the Scottish Parliament encountered a difficult initial period but we are now starting to see the development of an institution which is making a real and visible difference for Scotland. Trade unions have been part of that success, working across the political spectrum, to ensure that issues which concern workers, such as skills development, workplace health, economic development and public sector investment are at the top of the agenda in Scotland.
“The STUC was at the forefront of the campaign for the Scottish Parliament and we can be proud of our role at the forefront of making the Parliament work for Scotland.”
Minister for Parliamentary Business, Margaret Curran, said:
"This is the first debate in the Scottish Parliament to recognise the role of trade unions and provides a welcome opportunity to celebrate their achievements.
"The Executive values trade unions as key partners and much of what has been achieved in recent years wouldn't have been possible without their support. This joint approach helped deliver the Emergency Workers Act while the ban on Smoking in Public Places is already benefiting workforces across Scotland.
"Improving workplace conditions has been a key priority for the STUC, it's also played a vital part in wider issues such as housing, education, transport and campaigning against discrimination in all of its forms.
"Trade Union Week demonstrates the significant contribution unions are making to Scottish society. Along with groups such as faith communities and voluntary organisations trade unions provide the glue that binds communities together."
Note for editors:
The debate will take place at 1445 on 6 December in the Scottish Parliament
Text of motion
*S2M-5269 Ms Margaret Curran: Civic Participation - Trade Union Engagement with Scotland’s Civic Society—That the Parliament recognises the strength and constructive nature of its partnership with civic Scotland; recalls that this began in the Constitutional Convention when a wide range of civic organisations, including trade unions, came together with the Labour and Liberal Democrat parties to develop the blueprint for devolution; notes that this partnership is evolving as the Parliament and civic society work together to achieve social justice, and acknowledges the importance of the Executive working in partnership with organisations such as the Scottish Trades Union Congress, other non-governmental organisations and civic partners in Scotland.
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