Mick Lynch, one of many UK’s most influential union leaders in current historical past, has introduced he’s retiring.
Mr Lynch is stepping down from the helm of the RMT (Rail Maritime and Transport Employees) union aged 63.
He served as normal secretary since 2021.
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Beneath his management, the union waged years of strike motion over pay and situations earlier than accepting a take care of the brand new Labour authorities this summer season.
The rail strikes by RMT members have been a part of the wave of business motion that meant 2022 had the best variety of strike days since 1989.
Walkouts started in June 2022 and didn’t formally conclude till September 2024.
“It has been a privilege to serve this union for over 30 years in all capacities, but now it is time for change,” Mr Lynch stated.
He’ll stay in put up till a successor is appointed in Could, the RMT stated.
Why’s he retiring?
No purpose was given for his departure however Mr Lynch stated there was a necessity for change and new employees to struggle.
“There has never been a more urgent need for a strong union for all transport and energy workers of all grades, but we can only maintain and build a robust organisation for these workers if there is renewal and change,” he stated.
“RMT will always need a new generation of workers to take up the fight for its members and for a fairer society for all”.
A profession of organising
Mr Lynch first joined the RMT in 1993 after he started working for Eurostar. Earlier than being elected secretary normal on the prime of the organisation he labored because the assistant normal secretary for 2 phrases and because the union’s nationwide govt committee govt, additionally for 2 phrases.
As a certified electrician, Mr Lynch helped arrange the Electrical and Plumbing Industries Union (EPIU) in 1988, earlier than working for Eurostar and becoming a member of the RMT.
He had labored in building and was blacklisted for becoming a member of a union.
“This union has been through a lot of struggles in recent years, and I believe that it has only made it stronger despite all the odds,” Mr Lynch stated.
