The event runs from Friday to Sunday, commemorating six Dorset farmworkers transported to Australia after forming a union in 1834
Thousands of trade unionists are flocking to the Tolpuddle Martyrs’ Festival this weekend, riding high on the wave of optimism following Labour’s pledge for enhanced workers’ rights.
The festival, which kicks off on Friday and runs until Sunday, pays homage to six Dorset farmworkers who were sent to Australia for forming a union back in 1834. Business and Employment Minister Justin Madders is set to take the stage on Sunday, following an address by TUC General Secretary Paul Nowak.
The lineup of speakers at the Dorset celebration also includes Unite general secretary Sharon Graham, TUC president Matt Wrack, and Palestinian ambassador Dr Husam Zomlot. Ines Lage, TUC South West regional secretary, commented: “Tolpuddle is a key event in the trade union calendar, attracting a diverse crowd of people from all over the world.”
She added: “Fundamentally, this festival is a celebration of working people’s power and their ability to achieve effective and transformational change. This year we follow a general election that voted overwhelmingly for a change of government and a Prime Minister that has committed to bringing a new Employment Bill in its first 100 days.”
