Northern region welcomes Frances O'Grady as next TUC General Secretary

date: 10 July 2012

embargo: for immediate release

Kevin Rowan, Northern TUC Regional Secretary said:

'The announcement that Frances O'Grady is set to be the next General Secretary of the TUC is excellent news for the trade union movement. Frances is a good friend to the Northern region and has spoken at our rallies against government cuts, inspired local reps and campaigners as well as worked with MPs and council leaders in the region on issues such as apprenticeships and the living wage. The world of work continues to change and it is important that the trade union movement reflects that. With a majority of trade union members now female, Frances O'Grady's appointment as General Secretary cannot come at a better time.'

Clare Williams, Chair of the Northern Public Services Alliance and Unison Regional Convenor said:

'Trade unions have been at the forefront of opposing the Coalition government's savage cuts and arguing for clear alternatives to austerity. Frances O'Grady has consistently supported our work in the region through the Northern Public Services Alliance and recognises the importance of building alliances to defend working people and the most vulnerable in society. All the research shows that the Coalition cuts are disproportionately affect women. I am therefore particularly pleased that the TUC will have its first female General Secretary to lead the charge against the government's destructive and discredited austerity measures.

'As Deputy General Secretary, Frances has shown considerable interest in and support for trade union members in the region opposing racism in workplaces and in communities. This has all helped keep the region a BNP-free zone and provide a positive response to far right groups such as the EDL. We look forward to working closely with Frances in her new leadership role for a fairer future for all our communities in the years ahead.'

NOTES TO EDITORS:

Additional high-res photographs available upon request

- Northern TUC press releases www.tuc.org.uk/northern national releases www.tuc.org.uk and www.twitter.com/tucnews

- Register for the TUC's press extranet: a service exclusive to journalists wanting to access pre-embargo releases and reports www.tuc.org.uk/pressextranet

- For TUC advice and information on the world of work www.workSMART.org.uk

Media contacts:

Kevin Rowan, Northern TUC Regional Secretary T: 0191 227 5565; M: 07766250074; E: krowan@tuc.org.uk