Sunday 1 May 2011

May Day - Up the workers!

Today is the first of May, and the day devoted to St Joseph, patron saint of (among others) workers, craftsmen, immigrants and "people fighting communism". Well that's the way Wiki tells it.

It's also International Workers Day, and we tend to get the first Monday in May off although there's plans by the Conservative Government to move the holiday to October, with the aim of extending the tourist season. What's the matter Dave, too socialist for you?

So whenever you're celebrating International Workers Day, it's worth giving thanks for the people that have fought in the past to protect workers rights, and have fought to protect the health and wellbeing of employees. While you may think your job stinks (If you're lucky enough to have a job), there's sweatshops all over the world where a 48 hour working week, paid holidays and a safe working environment is something they can only dream about. Some of these sweatshops make the clothes on your back and the electronics in your pocket.

And don't forget that trade union leaders get killed just for asking for better pay and conditions. Rumour has it that some well known household brands have policies were human rights are optional. And I'm tempted to name names..

So when you have a bad day at work, it could be a whole lot worse.

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