Link to this page: http://www.socialistparty.org.uk/issue/678/12348
From The Socialist newspaper, 6 July 2011
Walkout at Wormwood Scrubs prison
Keith Dickinson, West London Socialist Party
Over 100 staff from all sections of the POA, including governors, walked out of Wormwood Scrubs Prison, West London, on 30 June for a lunchtime protest meeting.
All of them are affected by the pension cuts and are angry about the other cuts in their living standards. They also wanted to express their solidarity with those public sector workers in PCS, UCU, NUT and ATL on strike against attacks on their pensions.
Alan Gourley, the chair of the POA in the prison conducted the meeting outside the gates. In a very good speech he clearly summed up the members' views, judging by his reception.
He said he couldn't imagine prison officers being able to do their job until they are 66.
At present there is provision for early retirement due to ill health but that can and has been violated by something called a Medical Efficiency clause which is then used to get rid of workers on a much reduced allowance.
Presently they are faced with a government dictat not negotiations. It is not a strong government and has already been forced into u-turns.
"Our pressure can tell", Alan said. He hoped the Socialist could give their voice a hearing as none of the other press had shown an interest.
I also spoke, bringing greetings, solidarity and congratulations from the Socialist Party, West London branch and nationally.
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In The Socialist 6 July 2011:
30th June strike and after
Next time - strike together...
24-hour public sector general strike as next step to beat the Con-Dems
Standing up to a weak government
Labour - condemned for condemning strike
Walkout at Wormwood Scrubs prison
30 June pension strike reports
Socialist Party news and analysis
Leaked memo shows government lied over its homeless policies
Dilnot report: A disservice to disabled and older people
Durham Miners' Gala: Miliband pulls out
Stop the racist and divisive EDL
Time to defend abortion rights... again
Socialist Party workplace news
Southampton council workers strike on same day as teachers, lecturers and civil servants
Birmingham - the fightback begins
Leeds Unison members decisively reject the council's final offer
Fawley refinery construction engineers summarily sacked
Fighting pension cuts and the anti-union laws
Successful NSSN meeting in Coventry
International socialist news and analysis
East Belfast riots: Only united working class action can prevent further attacks
Kazakhstan: Striking oil workers attempt to break news blockade
Socialist Party reports and campaigns
All workers: unite to fight for decent jobs
High street job cuts: Jane Norman worker speaks out
Socialist Students meeting prepares for new term
Youth Fight for Jobs: campaign moving forward
Day-Mer festival support for 30 June pensions strike
Socialist Party reviews
Socialist Party
Building the socialist alternative on 30 June
Socialist Party youth meeting: Successful and insightful
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