Plean man’s Covid work hailed
A Plean trade union member was this week awarded a health and safety accolade for his work during the pandemic.
Scotland’s largest trade union body the STUC awarded Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers Union (RMT) member Gary Pollock the Frank Maguire Award.
It was presented to him by First Minister Nicola Sturgeon at the STUC annual congress in Aberdeen this week.
The award recognised his commitment to health and safety during the Covid pandemic.
Mr Pollock was key to establishing a“safe zone”on trains for all Scotrail conductors and ticket examiners, ensuring they were able to maintain a social distance from passengers whilst allowing staff to continue with safety critical duties.
The RMT member also pressed Scotrail to provide rest facilities with suitable social distancing measures.
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.”
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.”