Council chief urges unions to be responsible in Christmas run-up

Gloucester City Council leader Richard Cook has called on unions to “be responsible” and not put lives at risk with strike action during the run-up to Christmas.

His comments were made at a recent cabinet meeting while he answered a question from a member of the public.

Unite union campaigner Stephen Gower asked at the meeting at North Warehouse on December 7 whether the council would commit to actively work towards ensuring everyone would be entitled to live in a safe and warm environment without fear.

He said Unite Community Gloucester, Bath and Bristol passed such a motion and that Gloucester MP Richard Graham said it was to be an aspiration.

“In 2022, and in the current environmental and financial crisis we find ourselves in, would this council agree that such an aspiration then is more prevalent now?” Mr Gower asked.

“And would the council provide a commitment now to actively pursue this at this time as a motion of intent for all concerned.”

Councillor Cook (C, Kingsway) thanked Mr Gower for the question and said it was the aspiration of everyone to live in a safe and warm environment and without fear.

He said the breadth of the issues were beyond the scope of any one council or government to deal with it on their own.

“We know that in a troubled world there are many obstacles to achieving this. Yes, we believe the aspiration referred to by our MP is the right word,” he said.

“That the programmes put in place by the Government for energy support for households and business, the record largest increase in claimant benefits, the national living wage and the state pension alongside the commitment to the triple lock will all collectively make a significant difference to residents who are juggling household budgets.

“The key to local government success is strong partnerships with other organisations responsible for delivering. Unite and other unions also play an important part in the responsible trade union approach to public service delivery rather than disrupting the vital services for millions in the run up to Christmas or even endangering lives by strike action.

“This aspiration of living without fear includes for many people living without fear for crucial transport, mail and health services not being available.

“So, whether it’s this council or the Unite trade union, we all have a role to play in the aspiration of living safe and warm lives without fear. This council will play its part and I hope all the unions will too.”

By Carmelo Garcia – Local Democracy Reporter

Gloucester News Centre – http://gloucesternewscentre.co.uk