Local MP Martin Docherty-Hughes MP has paid tribute to the sacrifices made by generations of West Dunbartonshire’s working men and women, in a speech to commemorate this year’s International Workers’ Memorial Day.
MP Martin joined with local representatives, including Marie McNair MSP and Depute Provost Karen Conaghan, at Clydebank’s Truth and Justice Square at a memorial event organised by Clydebank Asbestos Group (CAG).
International Workers’ Memorial Day takes place on 28th April every year to remember people who were killed at work, as well as those who have suffered injury, illness or disease through their employment.
This year’s theme is ‘health and safety is a fundamental workers’ right’, with local MP Martin commending CAG on their 30th anniversary for fighting for workers’ rights and speaking up for families who have lost loved ones to asbestos in the workplace.
Clydebank Asbestos Group was established in 1992 as a volunteer organisation by David Colraine to help provide support, advice and information for victims of asbestos and their families.
A minute’s silence was observed at the remembrance event held on Saturday at West Dunbartonshire’s Solidarity Plaza, with speeches from Martin Docherty-Hughes MP, Theresa Jones (CAG Chairperson), Fraser Simpson (Partner at Digby Brown Solicitors), and Karen Conaghan (West Dunbartonshire Council Depute Provost).
Martin Docherty-Hughes MP said:
“It’s a privilege to speak as a representative of the people of West Dunbartonshire as we mark International Workers’ Memorial Day.
“Today we are reminded of the struggles faced by our community in the past, and the sacrifices made by generations of workers in the fight for workers’ rights.
“The legacy of our industrial past has taken a heavy toll on our working men and women, many of whom are sadly no longer with us. We are fortunate here to have Clydebank Asbestos Group leading the way in giving a voice to those who have been silenced.
“The fight for truth and justice continues – and by working together our conviction and determination will only become stronger.”
Further information on support for people affected by asbestos is available on the Clydebank Asbestos Group website here: www.clydebankasbestos.org/
