WORKERS at Glasgow’s 13^th Note bar have become the first in 20 years to take strike action, their union said today.

Members of Unite Hospitality have began a 48-hour strike today over the usually packed Glasgow Fair weekend as they struggle for contracts, safe working conditions, and a living wage.

The bar remained padlocked as dozens of trade unionists – including retired members –  descended on Unite’s picket to show solidarity with young workers in a sector with notoriously poor conditions and low union density. 

As the picket became a rally, workers at the venue addressed the crowd, detailing what they called the “intransigence” of the owner, Jacqueline Fennessy, who had issued legally incompetent redundancy notices to workers in recent weeks.

They were joined by local Labour and Green councillors, as well as former Labour leader Richard Leonard, who told the Star: “I’m here because I think it’s the job of labour politicians not just to make speeches in Parliament, but to be out on the streets supporting workers when they’re taking industrial action.

“These courageous workers are taking industrial action for the first time that I can remember in 40 years’ experience as a trade unionist.

“I think it’s great to see these are predominantly young workers who are getting support from retired members, and getting support from trade unions right across the spectrum.

“I think the conditions that these workers are toiling in represent some of the worst examples I’ve ever seen of working conditions that people have to put up with.

“And clearly they are saying today we are not going to put up with it anymore.”

Unite activist and 13^th Note worker Nick Troy told the Star: “Traditionally, our sector has been neglected by the movement, so the solidarity today is incredibly moving, to be honest, because traditionally – even with customers – you’re not used to people treating you with respect.

“We’re here for the real living wage as a base level for junior members of staff, for proper contracts, a safer workplace, one that isn’t crawling with mice, and doesn't have broken equipment falling on top of members of staff.

“I think with hospitality employers, generally it’s like the Wild West. 

“They’re so used to operating outwith the law that they are now at a point where they don't even understand it.

“Hospitality is struggling and this is why, because it treats people so poorly, as if we aren’t human beings.”

13^th Note was contacted for comment.