PR 307: POA GENERAL SECRETARY STEVE GILLAN CHALLENGES THE LABOUR GOVERNMENT TO SHOW THEY ARE ON THE SIDE OF WORKERS

In his closing address to the POA Conference, General Secretary Steve Gillan has challenged the Labour Government, whoever is in charge, to demonstrate once and for all that they are on the side of Prison Officers and working class communities.

He paid tribute to the selfless dedication of Prison Officers, with special thanks to the courage and bravery of staff at HMP Frankland who faced up to the horrific terror attack at the jail a year ago.

Steve Gillan said:

“The commitment and hard work of members, delegates and branch officials means the Union is in rude health”. 

Steve Gillan added:

“This Labour Government under Keir Starmer has let down Prison Officers and working class communities since its election two years ago. Whoever the Prime Minister is going to be it is time for them to reset this Government’s purpose and get back to representing working

people, like our members who provide such an important role in keeping society safe. 

That means whoever wins the impending Labour Leadership contest they must restore our basic human rights, most notably the right to strike and repealing Tory anti-worker legislation, it also means lowering the unjust and unfair retirement age that sees Prison Officers having to work until 68 years of age and it means bringing forward a second Employment Rights Bill to deliver much improved workers’ rights. 

What has been clear from our Conference this week is that our Union is buoyant, we have brilliant and dedicated branch officials who will continue to work on campaigns that will see our Union punch above its weight as they represent our brave and courageous members, exemplified by our colleagues at Frankland. 

Our Union has a bright future because of the unity and strength that was on display in Eastbourne this week and because when we fight together, we win together”

 

ENDS

  

For further information, contact:

POA Press Office                                                  020 8803 0255 Option 7