Blindcraft: Edinburgh City Council has lost its morals and humanity
17 September 2010
Unite, Britain's biggest union says the SNP/Liberal run
Edinburgh City Council has lost its morals and humanity following
its decision to close Blindcraft, leaving dozens of blind and
disabled people unemployed. BlindCraft, employs around 70 people
and has been operating in Edinburgh since 1793, it makes beds
that are then sold to clients including universities, hospitals and
hotels.
Unite's regional officer Gillian McKay said: "Edinburgh City
Council has lost its morals and humanity. The SNP and Lib Dems have
clearly indicated that they are prepared to attack even the most
vulnerable members of our society. The people in need of the
most protection have been cast aside.
"Trade unions, as well as the friends and family of Blindcraft
workers have had their impassioned pleas ignored. By remaining in
employment these disabled workers would have kept their dignity at
work, continued to contribute to society and paid their
taxes. Instead they are now being forced into a life where
there is no possibility for them to gain meaningful employment and
will end up on benefits for the rest of their lives."
"A company who has had its roots in Edinburgh for over 200
years looking after vulnerable workers is finally being closed due
to cuts. We intend to fight this closure and fight for the
workers' dignity."
Unite believes that the strain on other public sector
departments providing support to the redundant workers, would in
the long term be more expensive than keeping Blindcraft open.
ENDS
Contact: Ciaran Naidoo on 07768 931 315
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