Commenting, Mr Pollock said, “This award is dedicated to all my colleagues who worked tirelessly throughout the pandemic.We ensured that our employers were held to account and that health and safety was the top priority for all passengers and staff on the railways.

This award shows the strength of our movement. That when we collectivise, unionise and fight for better conditions, workers throughout Scotland are a force to be reckoned with."

Commenting, STUC General Secretary Roz Foyer added, “Right across Scotland, in every sector of the economy, our reps and shop stewards are the face of our trade union movement in our workplaces and in our communities. Our annual Union Rep Awards celebrate these stalwarts and all those who have gone above and beyond this past year.

“This year was no exception and Gary is a leading light of our movement, going above and beyond for his members on the railways. I agree with the RMT. In the height of a pandemic, with chaos and confusion, Gary’s commitment to health and safety saved lives.

Our reps are the lifeblood of our movement; an incredible force for good in helping others in need. Every single one of them deserves an award for the amazing work that they do and they have my utmost praise as they ingrain trade union values throughout their workplaces."

Wendy Burton, Director, Scottish Union Learning, added "The work of Gary and his RMT colleagues not only ensures the safety of Rail workers, but also that of passengers across Scotland’s Railways. Scottish Union Learning has supported the development of the STUC Health & Safety Reps Network, Safe and Secure workplaces are at the heart of Fair Work."

--

For further information on the STUC Health & Safety Reps Network please contact Terry Anderson, Community Development Officer, STUC – tanderson@stuc.org.uk