Human rights service staff defend jobs

PCS members at the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) took their third period of strike action on 6 June against plans to close offices and cut jobs. The government, which plans to reduce funding by 60%, has been accused of aiming at the destruction of this important service.

Marie, a rep at the Cardiff office, explained that the cuts could mean leaving Wales with just eight workers to cover a population of four million, no office in North Wales and severe reductions in the service provided to Welsh-speakers in particular.

“The government claims they’re cutting red tape but in reality they’re doing serious damage to the most vulnerable people,” she said. EHRC workers battle for the rights of groups who have suffered discrimination and unfair treatment.

Topics of discussion on the picket line included the effects on children with disabilities in schools and how the “reforms” of the benefit claim process will disqualify those in genuine need.

Jamie, another rep, remarked on the enthusiasm in the office for plans to strike together with other PCS members and other unions on 30 June. Cardiff Against The Cuts, the anti-cuts committee set up by Cardiff Trades Council met on 7 June to discuss plans for action on 30 June.

Ross Saunders