A motion passed in an Uplands branch meeting, and subsequently passed at Swansea West CLP, called for Swansea Labour to lead the reinstatement of May Day celebrations in Swansea.  In years gone by, this has been the role of the unions, but no events have been held in recent years, and members agreed it’s important to mark International Workers’ Day.  It’s not just about the rights and values we all take for granted – like weekends, maternity leave, the minimum wage etc.  It’s also about the rights that we are still fighting for – an end to zero hours contracts, an end to the gender pay gap, and decent, safe conditions for all workers.

Uplands branch members were active in the organising committee set up for the May Day celebrations, and helped to arrange a day of events aimed at different audiences.  This included a family-friendly placard making session after school, a march up Wind Street, a rally in Castle Square, and an evening of speakers and socialising in Volcano Theatre.  Cllr Rob Stewart, leader of Swansea Council, spoke to express his personal commitment to the unions and to employee rights and conditions.