UNISON strikers

A few of us went to see the trade unionists on the picket line today. Not a brilliant photo, but hopefully it will be a reminder of today. Waved a flag in solidarity. Many people around the world have many obstacles in the way of joining a trade union, including death threats.

Catholic social teaching is very positive about the role of trade unions and the rights of workers.

"The state... has a duty to protect the rights of all its people, and particularly of its weaker members, the workers, women and children." (Mater et Magistra, para. 20)

"If one man hires out to another his strength or skill, he does so for the purpose of receiving in return what is necessary for the satisfaction of his needs..." (Rerum Novarum, para. 5)

"The most important of all are workingmen's unions... History attests what excellent results were brought about by the artificers' guilds of olden times." (Rerum Novarum, para. 49)

Taken today, Wednesday 30 November 2011. Happy St Andrew's Day!