Railway union leader Mick Lynch will make a speech at this year's Durham Miners' Gala.
The National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers (RMT) General Secretary says it is a "great honour" to be added to the list of speakers at the upcoming Big Meeting, which returns after a Covid break and is dedicated to key workers. The gala will be held on Saturday, July 9 in Durham.
Mr Lynch recently led RMT members on a three-day train strike. They are still in dispute with operators and Network Rail.
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Mr Lynch said: “It is a great honour to speak at the Durham Miners' Gala. It is the biggest and best event in the trade union calendar and a source of strength and inspiration for us all.”
The RMT leader has been hailed by trade unionists for his media performances and for speaking up in defence of striking rail workers. Durham Miners' Association Secretary Alan Mardghum said: “The DMA stands in solidarity with the RMT and its members. We are delighted that Mick will be with us when the Gala returns. We know he’ll receive a great reception at The Big Meeting.”
Speeches will start at 1pm at the Racecourse Ground. Fellow speakers will include Christina McAnea, Unison; Sharon Graham, Unite; Patrick Roach, from teaching union NASUWT; and Jo Grady, from further and higher education union UCU, as well as Yvette Williams from the Justice 4 Grenfell campaign.
The DMA will announce soon the two rank and file key workers selected to speak from the platform. It expects around 200,000 people to attend this year's gala.
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