LETTER: Europe has done a lot for women

I belong to one of the biggest unions in Britain and Ireland, Unite the union.

Europe has done quite a lot for women – this is what some of our women members are saying.

“Being in Europe means that the UK is bound by common rules which seek to ensure protections for women in the workplace, tackle gender discrimination and fight against income inequality, but these will only be fully achieved by trade union collective bargaining.” – chemicals sector.

“Those of us who are new mums have taken for granted the maternity leave set out in the EU employment law.” – retail worker.

“EU legislation has brought about many advancements in employment law that have directly impacted women. Even Emmeline Pankhurst’s great granddaughter said she would have been the first to champion what the EU has meant for women.” – bank worker.

“Although not a perfect institution I will be voting to remain, as being a member of the EU helps to halt a race to the bottom of firms trying to find the least protected workforce where the employees have the fewest rights.” – retail worker.

“Women, just as much as men, are better off in the EU thanks to the jobs our membership creates. I work in the automotive sector and my long term job security is obviously dependant on the success of the company.” – auto sector.

“We need to co-operate with other countries to protect the environment, we can do that in Europe. This issue is vital to all of our survival.” – IT analyst.

There are 73 UK women MEPs. That is 41 per cent of our MEPs.

It means that women have a strong voice at the decision making table.

We also have a European Committee of Women’s Rights and Gender Equality which has championed women’s rights across Europe.

So the answer is there for all who are asking the question “What has Europe ever done for women?”, well, quite a lot as it happens.

Rodney Sadd
Vice chair CLP
South Holland & The Deepings