Middlesborough local union-led public services alliance set up

IN MIDDLESBROUGH over one-third of jobs are in the public sector following the loss of heavy industries.

John Malcolm, healthworker, Middlesbrough

A big call centre has recently closed with hundreds of jobs lost. On the positive side, the mothballed Corus steel plant has recently been bought but it is unclear how many redundant workers will be re-employed.

In the NHS, despite government promises to ‘ring fence’ funding, efficiency savings have to be made on yearly basis.

Cuts in local government services are also on the agenda with little prospect of a fightback from councillors.

The setting up of a local union-led public services alliance is to be welcomed and a rally will take place in Middlesbrough on 29 September.