Thank you for inspirational strike

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PCS Comment

11 May 2012

Reports from around the country show that our strike yesterday was very well supported, with 200,000 workers from the civil service joining tens of thousands more from health and education.

We would like to thank all our reps and members for all your hard work and your determination to oppose these unnecessary and unfair cuts to pensions, jobs and pay.

In contrast to the disgraceful behaviour of government ministers, your actions yesterday and throughout this dispute are an inspiration to all – showing what more people are now recognising, that austerity isn't working and there is an alternative.

At Christmas the government tried to claim that it was over and most unions had accepted the deal. But the tide has turned, and the overwhelming majority of union members in the civil service, health and education sectors have said no.

We will now discuss with other unions another co-ordinated national strike at the end of June, with our employer groups considering plans for more targeted action.

And we will continue to work with as many unions as possible to continue building an alliance of opposition.

We are ready to negotiate with ministers at any time. But we are also preparing for more action if they continue to refuse to do so.

Thank you and solidarity.

Mark Serwotka Janice Godrich
General Secretary President

Some highlights of the day

Well attended rallies in London and around the country
Reports from some workplaces of higher turnout than 30 November
MoJ reps in Manchester took their samba band to the streets
Prison officers staged a wildcat walkout over pension age increase
Lots of media coverage, including lead item on BBC most of the day

For a full rundown, read our live blog

Public and Commercial Services Union