Link to this page: http://www.socialistparty.org.uk/issue/687/12874
From The Socialist newspaper, 28 September 2011
Stop coastguard cuts!
Sean Brogan, Exeter Socialist Party
As part of the Con-Dem coalition's 'austerity' programme under the guise of 'modernisation', Brixham Coastguard Station - along with eight others - faces closure.
These closures, due to commence in three years, will endanger life not only at sea but on the cliffs and inlets.
Fishing is a dangerous occupation and accidents at sea require an immediate response.
At a public meeting hosted by local councils, the case against these measures was put and well received by the audience.
But unfortunately no one was allowed to contribute from the floor except 'important' people! The top table included a member of the PCS union, which represents coastguards, but also local Tory MPs and an ex-Labour Party council member.
Having Tories and Lib Dems present was like asking Dracula to tie a tourniquet to a wound. These are the same people who are shredding our NHS. Those who are rescued by coastguards will have to have second-rate hospital treatment if these cuts are not defeated.
This struggle will only be won, not by inviting the butchers to tea, but by linking up the trade unions, local communities and building anti-cuts alliances.
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In The Socialist 28 September 2011:
Building for 30 November strike
Mass strikes can kick out Con-Dems
Jarrow march for jobs
Join the Jarrow marchers on their 330 mile journey!
Why are you supporting the march?
Jarrow march - council puts high price on right to protest
The Socialist's editorials
World economy in meltdown - we won't pay for capitalist crisis
Pro-business Labour offers crumbs and promises cuts
Socialist history
1911 - Bermondsey women's uprising
Socialist Party youth and students
£6,000 uni fees? An offer we can refuse!
Fight fees and cuts - join Socialist Students!
Youth demand a future in Tottenham
Socialist Party news and analysis
As Murdochgate scandal goes on - release Tommy Sheridan!
Scotland: SNP do the Con-Dems' dirty work
Dale Farm - call off the evictions of residents
Metal thefts - The hidden crime of capitalism
Socialism 2011: A weekend of discussion and debate
International socialist news and analysis
As debt crisis deepens... Greek workers and youth in revolt
Socialist Party workplace news
Construction workers strike to defend agreements
Greenwich Unite takes fight to cuts councillors
Socialist Party reports and campaigns
PFI schemes - a national scandal
Salford says: Save Lancaster House!
Stroud demo against private sharks killing the NHS
Socialist Party review
Film review: Tinker tailor soldier spy
Readers' comments
My impressions of the Work Programme
Standing up for our pension rights
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