CWU praises Barber’s ‘great leadership’
18th April 2012
Billy Hayes today described
Brendan Barber (pictured right) as "an
excellent leader, who's given unwavering support to our
union," after the TUC general secretary announced his decision
to retire from the post.
In a statement this morning, Mr. Barber said that he will be
stepping down later this year, after 10 years at the helm of the
UK's trade union movement, during which he has come to the
assistance of the CWU on many occasions.
"Brendan Barber is a respected leader, negotiator and trade
unionist and he has made himself available to the CWU during
difficult disputes, helping our union represent our members across
all our sectors of telecoms, financial services and post,"
said Billy (pictured below).
"I have had the pleasure of sitting on the TUC
General Council and Executive Committee with Brendan for many years
and his calm insight and good humour never fails to impress.
"Under Brendan's watch many initiatives have blossomed,
notably the successful UnionLearn project which has brought
education to thousands of working people," Billy continued.
Back in 2007, and again in 2009, Mr. Barber was instrumental in
helping to broker negotiations between the CWU and Royal Mail,
which resulted in the Business Transformation: 2010 and Beyond
agreement that has paved the way for an agreed process of
modernisation of the UK postal industry.
And the TUC, particularly Mr. Barber, has also provided constant
support for our union's efforts to secure fair pay and improved
conditions for our telecoms members too - while also backing
campaigns by the CWU and other unions for agency workers'
rights.
The TUC head has spoken at rallies and demonstrations in support
of all of our key campaigns in recent years, from fighting against
privatisation - Keep the
Post Public - to the push for universal, nationwide
broadband provision - Delivering Digital
Britain.
"We thank Brendan for everything he has done - not only for CWU members, but for all the many millions of trade unionists in the UK. We wish Brendan well with whatever he chooses to embark on next and feel confident that he leaves the TUC in good shape to represent the UK's working people."
The next TUC general secretary will be elected by the affiliated unions and the result will be unveiled at this year's congress in Brighton in September.
