Jänner 2002
General strike in Northern Ireland against sectarianism...
80,000 workers attended Belfast lunch time rally
Early reports of today's half-day strike in Northern Ireland, called by the Northern Ireland Congress of Trade Unions against sectarian attacks on workers, indicate a massive response by workers.
The strike was called after recent sectarian riots in North Belfast, the killing of a young Catholic postal worker by Loyalist paramilitaries last week, and threats against many public sector workers by paramilitaries. Postal works had already taken action and the demand grew from other workers for the trade union leaders to call for action.
Socialist Party TD (MP) Joe Higgins, travelled to Belfast for the protests and to speak at a Socialist Party public meeting. He told the CWI: "It was a very powerful protest. Tens of thousands of workers took to the centre of Belfast, perhaps up to 80,000, despite heavy rain and a cold.
The platform speakers were all trade unionists. The podium however was poorly organised which meant many workers could not hear the speeches.
The Socialist Party had a tremendous presence, selling papers, giving out leaflets, and running stalls. The Socialist Youth initiative, United Against Sectarianism, organised an impressive contingent. Dozens and dozens of school students followed their banner.
The Socialist Party public meeting held after the Belfast rally was a great success. Around 60 people attended to listen to a socialist alternative to sectarianism, poverty and capitalism".
[ Top ] |