CLLR DECLAN BREE was critical of the governments Croke Park II proposals when he addressed those attending a United Left public lecture on the subject of the trade union and labour movement in Sligo during the war of independence and civil war.
The noted historian and author Dr Michael Farry, a native of Coolaney, delivered the lecture and gave a wide ranging talk on “The Irish revolution and the labour movement in Sligo 1912-1923”.
Clr Bree who presided at the event said: “One hundred years ago, in the face of significant opposition from employers and the establishment, the early pioneers of the Irish trade union and labour movement went out and fought for the rights of working people; for proper and safe conditions for workers; for adequate pay; for a shorter working week.
“It’s sad to note that now in 2013 – certain well heeled trade union and labour leaders are actually encouraging trade unionists to vote for a deal which will reduce income and increase working hours.
“It is my fervent hope that public sector workers and trade union members will take inspiration from the early pioneers of the movement, people like Jim Larkin, like James Connolly and John Lynch, people who were inspired by a sense of justice and a sense of solidarity.” he said.