Trade union hosts LGBT meeting in Glasgow

Mary Fee MSP: Will address delegates. Picture: Contributed

• Leading trade union to host lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender meeting discussing workplace issues affecting LGBT community

• Scottish Trades Union Conference will meet in Glasgow this weekend

The Scottish Trades Union Congress (STUC) is holding an LGBT workers’ conference for a second year.

Homophobia in the workplace is still a significant problem and many employees are not confident about being “out” at work, according to the body.

Mary Fee MSP, convenor of the Scottish Parliament’s Equal Opportunities Committee, will address delegates tomorrow.

On Sunday there will be speeches by Drew Smith MSP, representing the Better Together campaign, and Toni Giugliano on behalf of Yes Scotland.

Question and answer sessions will follow.

Craig Cameron, chairman of the STUC’s LGBT committee said: “While progress has been made on equality for LGBT people in Scotland, there is still much work to do. The recent Equal Marriage Bill is an important step forward, but too often LGBT people still face intolerance and prejudice in their everyday life.

“Homophobia in the workplace is still a significant problem, with many trade union members reporting bullying and harassment as part of their daily life.

“Too many workers are still not confident about being ‘out’ at work and are looking for a clear sign from their employer that homophobia will be challenged and they will be supported. Strong trade unions have a clear role to play in supporting people facing discrimination at work and in fighting to ensure that everyone can access their rights.

“It is also important that LGBT people are heard within the debate on the constitution. We are looking forward to hearing more from both campaigns and debating how we can shape a better future for LGBT people in Scotland.