Tuesday, 28 November 2023

ATUC pays tribute to the life and activism of Gerry McCabe

The Aberdeen TUC is very saddened at the death of Gerry McCabe on 3rd November 2023.

Gerry was a long serving UNISON delegate to the ATUC and all delegates who knew him have very fond memories of campaigning alongside Gerry over many years and especially when he was a UNISON representative at Aberdeen City Council fighting back against Council cuts.

Gerry was an excellent Trade Union representative who spoke his mind and clearly expressed his point of view on matters affecting the lives of UNISON members working for Aberdeen City Council.

He would regularly challenge Council Officers and local Councillors, especially when opposing job losses and cuts in Council services.

Gerry’s involvement with Aberdeen TUC meant he could be found standing on picket lines and marching down Union Street on the ATUC May Day and St. Andrew’s Day marches. He could also be very regularly seen in St Nicholas Square at the  Socialist Workers Party stall with his Socialist  Worker paper on sale.

Given Gerry’s support for the Palestinian people there was a warm salute of gratitude and respect recorded in his honour by all those in attendance at the Palestine Solidarity rally at Union Terrace Gardens on Saturday 18th November.

Gerry is a good example of a principled socialist and a true working-class hero who supported the working-class in their struggle for a better life in a world of peace, free from hatred and war.

In his honour and memory the Aberdeen TUC will continue to organise to improve the lives of working-class people and their families whether at the workplace or within the wider community here in Aberdeen and elsewhere around our world.

When we are on picket lines or demonstrating on our streets we will always remember Gerry, as we follow in his footsteps, honouring his memory and lifetime commitment to Trade Unionism, International Solidarity and Socialism.

Our deepest condolences go to Gerry's wife and family and his many, many friends.