Join the march for a social Europe

WE should all support the call by the European Trade Union Confederation (ETUC) for a European day of action on April 2/3, when hundreds of thousands of citizens are expected to demonstrate in support a democracy, justice, equality, tolerance and freedom across our continent.

John Monks, general secretary of the ETUC, says that social Europe is under threat along with the national collective bargaining and welfare systems of member states.

“There are widespread attempts by governments to weaken welfare, privatise public services, undermine social dialogue, block new social measures at European level, encourage the US-originated doctrine of shareholder value to be the goal of all companies, in contrast to the traditional multi-stakeholder and social dialogue approach of European businesses.

"This is totally unacceptable and trade unions must make their voice heard.”

There will be mass demonstrations in major cities, as well as conferences and briefing sessions to raise the awareness of workers about what is at stake and media campaigns to highlight the case for a strong social Europe to balance the single market and to contribute to a successful unification of the continent.

Paul Kinsella,

53, Lorcan Grove,

Santry,

Dublin 9.