A FRINGE event at the STUC congress is set to try to tackle key policy challenges before the Scottish Government – including land and tax.
The meeting, which will be hosted by the SNP Trade Union Group in association with The National, will welcome think tank representatives and trade union leaders to Caird Hall in Dundee on Wednesday.
Its aim is to highlight significant policy challenges for the Scottish Government on taxation, land, industrial and economic policy, assets, energy and public services.
Invited speakers at the event, which will be chaired by SNP TUG convener Bill Ramsay, include Craig Dalzell from Common Weal, Abigail Guthrie (Prospect, and STUC general council), Gordon Martin (RMT) and Andrea Bradley (EIS).
Simon Barrow, the national secretary of the TUG, the SNP’s largest affiliated body, told The National: “The SNP TUG is working with friends and allies across the trade union movement, whatever their affiliation, to encourage even bolder policies at Holyrood that defend jobs and services, looking towards a radical transition to full political and economic democracy in Scotland.
“This fringe meeting is another opportunity for the leaders and parliamentary representatives of the SNP to hear and respond to the vital work of trade unions in demanding better for Scotland.”
The Scottish Trades Union Congress (STUC) conference will see its final day on Wednesday, with Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar to speak.
First Minister Humza Yousaf addressed the conference on Monday, while STUC general secretary Roz Foyer spoke on Tuesday.
Barrow, who will also speak at the fringe event, commented: “We are pleased that First Minister and SNP leader Humza Yousaf set out a progressive agenda in his keynote speech to the STUC.
“That includes forthright opposition to UK anti-strike laws, a pause and overhaul of the National Care Service Bill, the promise to engage positively with the STUC on its recent economic report, certain targeted tax powers for local authorities, support for migrants and refugees, and opposition to racism and discrimination in the workplace and beyond.
“On these and other issues, the First Minister is listening to trade unionists within and outwith the party.”
The SNP TUG’s fringe event will run in Caird Hall’s Committee Room 2 from 12:30 to 2pm.
