*PHOTO TAKEN IN 2018 - LtoR: Sean Connolly, Fay Hough, Trevor McKeever, Jon Cruddas
Today (Wednesday 28 April 2021) is International Workers Memorial Day. A day set aside to remember those who died building our industrial past and to show our commitment to fighting for safer workplaces and communities. There is a long tradition of marking this day across Dagenham and Rainham, and whilst trade unionists and the wider community cannot physically meet this year the Barking, Dagenham and Havering Trades Union Council are holding an online discussion.
Previous years have seen a memorials established outside Rainham Library (tree and stone memorial) and in front of the Dagenham Civic Centre (tree and plaque). Now a memorial is also planned for Barking Town Square.
Jon Cruddas MP said: "We have a proud history of trade unionism, industry and working-class labour across Dagenham and Rainham ? from the suffragettes to the Ford machinists. However today is also a day to remember the mistakes of industry, such as the asbestos factories that claimed many workers lives and still have ramifications for their families today."
It is estimated that around 50,000 people die every year from work related injury or illness. Over the last 12 months, due to the pandemic, this number is set to be even higher.
Trade unionists, residents and supporters are invited to the BDH Trades Union Council meeting this evening to hear from a range of speakers (outlined below). The meeting begins at 7pm and will last approx. one hour. To register for a zoom link please email your interest to BDHTUC@hotmail.com
Guest speakers invited:
- Jon Cruddas MP for Dagenham and Rainham
- Fair compensation for those that have suffered.
- John McClean Joint Union Asbestos Committee Asbestos in Our Schools
- Why is asbestos such a big problem in schools?
- Cllr. Darren Rodwell Leader of Barking and Dagenham Council
- Building better, healthier and safer communities
- Chaired by Susan Aitouaziz Secretary Barking Dagenham and Havering Trades Union Council