Union solidarity saves the day

Last night (Tuesday July 14) ex-Unite shop steward Paul and his daughter Roisin were still safe in their home after a judge at Croydon Crown Court granted a seven day stay of eviction.

Paul Rooney, an insulin dependent diabetic, gave up his job as a social work manager to care for his severely disabled daughter, Roisin.

Roisin has a brain tumour, a chromosome disorder and as a result, physical and learning disabilities which require constant care.

Paul, who owns his own home, was left with a £2,000 council tax bill and £49,000 in solicitors’ fees after Liberata, Bromley’s council tax collector failed to process his benefits correctly.

He was left facing bankruptcy and eviction. Desperate and scared he turned to his union.

“It’s a relief, I’m very happy to get a hearing,” said Paul.

“I’m still very worried, but the support I’ve had from local people and trade unions has been amazing, I can’t thank them enough.”

Bailiffs approached Paul’s house yesterday but were forced to turn away by a group of 35 protestors there to support Paul and Roisin.

Members of Unite and Unite Community were joined by unions including RMT, NUJ and PCS.

Inhumane

 

“What Bromley council have tried to do to Paul is simply inhumane,” said Pilgrim Tucker, Unite Community coordinator for London.

“I am truly proud of Unite and of the solidarity shown to Paul by members of other trade unions too. It is a shining example of what being a member of a union is all about. We look out for one another and together we have strength to stand up to injustice like this,” added Pilgrim.

But Paul and Roisin are not saved yet. Their case will be heard at Croydon County Court on Tuesday July 21.

Unite has been assisting Paul with applying for legal aid, which he should be eligible for after being forced in to bankruptcy. However Unite’s housing support workers will try to find someone to represent him from within members if needed.

“It was Roisin’s birthday on Monday and we couldn’t celebrate because of the bailiffs coming. We can now celebrate her birthday this weekend instead,” added Paul.

Stay tuned to UNITE/live for updates on Paul and Rosin.