There was a huge turnout of long serving union activists and members, that gathered at the event in the lovely spring sunshine for the launch of SIPTU’s Welcome Centre on Moneen Road in Castlebar.
The Welcome Centre offers working people across the county a venue where they will receive a warm welcome and expert professional advice on all aspects of their employment.
Among those who addressed the event were the Cathaoirleach of Mayo County Council and SIPTU shop steward Councillor Blackie Gavin, Cathaoirleach of Castlebar Municipal District and retired SIPTU official Councillor Michael Kilcoyne and SIPTU General Secretary Designate, Joe Cunningham.
Following the official opening of the Welcome Centre, more than 30 activists were presented badges and scrolls, recognising 25 years of union membership and certificates were presented to six recently retired shop stewards.
SIPTU General Secretary Designate Joe Cunningham thanked the activists for their hard work and commitment to the Union down through the years saying: "I know the commitment involved in being a shop steward as I was once a shop steward myself, it is because of your commitment and hard work we have maintained a vibrant trade union in this county."
SIPTU Workers Right Centre advocate Martina Weir added: "People who call into the welcome centre will be assisted with advice in a private and confidential manner. Furthermore, we will provide them with representation if they wish to avail of the expertise and knowledge of the SIPTU Workers Right Centre concerning any workplace issues."
SIPTU Mayo District Council coordinator, Pat Flannery, commented: "The Welcome Centre will be open to SIPTU members and the general public. Workers can call in for advice Monday to Friday from 9.30am. to 1pm. and from 2pm to 5.30pm or can contact the centre on (094 ) 9021382.
