Billingsgate porters challenge City of London Markets Committee
29 November 2010
Unite, the union representing the fish porters at Billingsgate
market, has today (Monday 29 November) warned the City of London
Markets Committee not to destroy the heritage of the world famous
fish market.
As the Markets Committee meets today to make a decision on
proposals which will fundamentally change the running of the
successful Billingsgate market, Unite has said that the revocation
of the bye laws will have “disastrous” consequences.
Debbie McSweeney, Unite officer, said: “The members of the Markets
Committee must think again before they destroy the heritage of the
iconic Billingsgate fish narket in London’s east end. If they today
decide to brush aside decades of history, the consequences for the
market and its workforce will be disastrous.
“This committee has major powers, yet Unite has some serious
questions about those who sit on this committee. The mayor of
London must now step in and ensure Billingsgate market is not
smashed by the City of London corporation.
“Over 120 fish porters work within Billingsgate market and their
expertise and knowledge ensures the market is well run and
successful. If the corporation presses ahead with the proposed
changes they will lose their livelihoods.”
WHEN: 11am, Monday, 29th November 2010
WHERE: West Wing, Guildhall, EC2P 2EJ
Unite fish porters have gathered over 15,000 signatures of support
in their campaign in support of the bye laws. Many thousands of
members of the local community have also written to the City of
London corporation to express their opposition to their
plans.
The porters will lobby the members of the committee as they arrive
at the meeting. They will hand out leaflets outlining their
opposition to the revocation of the bye laws.
ENDS
For more information please contract: Saba Mozakka, Unite press
office on: 07768 693 953
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