It is with great sadness that Napo Greater London Branch has learned of the death in the early hours of this morning of RMT union leader Bob Crow aged 52. He worked on the railway from the age of 16 and took over leadership of the RMT in 2002 after the death of another union legend Jimmy Knapp. Always a hard act to follow, many of those in Napo will remember Bob as rousing speaker, who was always supportive of our members and campaigns often sharing a platform with Napos leadership. A good trade unionist and a good friend to many union leaders including those with less experience. His record shows that he was successful on behalf of protecting his members in both improving and protecting pay and conditions but also being constantly mindful of the need for railways to be run efficiently and safely so that the public had the best and safest possible service -no doubt saving many lives in the process. He will therefore be remembered for his unshakably strong and undoubtedly charismatic leadership, for his inspirational oratory skill (much in evidence as a legend on YouTube and elsewhere), and for his willingness to go the extra mile on behalf of his members even if it meant upsetting those in power in the process. It should always be remembered that he faced fierce and powerful opposition from successive governments who appeared intent on destroying the rail unions. Bob stood up for his members and was clearly proud of the fact he was a thorn in the side of reckless profiteers and all those who would put the rail travelling public at risk. He was often (nearly always) criticised unfairly by politicians who had no idea what he and his members were doing on behalf of the public and all the important work they do holding rail bosses to account and contributing to improvements in railway safety. Bob was also famously attacked and vilified by the right wing media but somehow, and despite the odds stacked against him, he got his powerful messages out. When he was given the opportunity to speak freely he did so with great clarity and conviction. The trade union movement in this country has lost a powerful voice and a good friend to all those interested in travelling safely, justice, fair pay, and workers rights. This branch therefore wishes to send our heart felt condolences to Bobs family. Pat Waterman Chair of Napo Greater London Branch on behalf of Greater London Branch Officers and Officials
Posted on: Tue, 11 Mar 2014 11:43:28 +0000
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