Trade union cancels major annual conference

One of the country’s largest trade unions has cancelled a major event in Blackpool.

Shopworkers’ trade union Usdaw has cancelled its Annual Delegate Meeting (ADM), due to have taken place 26 – 29 April in the town’s Winter Gardens.

Paddy Lillis – Usdaw General Secretary said: “Coronavirus is now regarded as a pandemic by the World Health Authority.

“The impact of the virus has been unprecedented in our lifetime and is changing on a daily basis.

“As one of the largest trade unions representing members in retail trades, warehousing and distribution, we have a key role to play in responsibly supporting the national interest, local communities and the economy.

“All our members in these critical sectors are working hard to keep the supply of food, groceries and other goods flowing and available to the public.

“We have reviewed on a daily basis the latest medical and Government advice regarding the virus. I can now confirm that having prioritised the wellbeing of members, reps and staff, we have taken the difficult decision to cancel this year’s ADM.

“Retail workers are playing an essential role in helping communities to get through the Coronavirus emergency; they deserve our support, respect and appreciation for everything they are doing at this difficult time.”

Usdaw is the UK’s fifth biggest trade union with over 400,000 members.

Most Usdaw members work in the retail sector, but the union also has many members in transport, distribution, food manufacturing, chemicals and other trades.