Scottish Government to announce unions funding for just transition at STUC Congress

News welcomed by STUC leader Roz Foyer

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon it to announce £100,000 in grant funding to support just transition capacity within the trade union movement at the Scottish Trades Union Congress (STUC) in Aberdeen.

The Scottish Government says unions are "fundamental in delivering a just transition to a net zero and climate resilient Scotland".

The annual funding will be used by STUC to help drive the change in the economy.

This year’s event marks the 125 years since the first STUC Annual Congress.

The First Minister said: “We want the trade unions to continue to influence and shape our delivery of a just transition.

“The unions – through the creation of the Just Transition Commission – have already been fundamental to our policy thinking about a just transition. This funding will ensure that they continue to be vital, as we get on with delivering good, green jobs and a truly just transition.

“The Scottish Government economic strategy rests on the idea that by supporting those who are in poverty, by delivering a just transition, by supporting fair work – we can help people to fulfil their potential and to contribute to our economy and our society.

“That’s a principle which I know the STUC is also committed to. It’s why they are valuable partners, and also important sources of challenge, as we work to create a fairer, greener Scotland.”

STUC General Secretary Roz Foyer said: “The trade union movement has been at the forefront of pushing for a just transition, ensuring climate justice is entwined with workers’ voices.

“Our movement, our environment and our planet cannot afford any more false dawns which fail to empower workers and their communities. We’re pleased that the Scottish Government has recognised this.

“This funding, in addition to the work ongoing within the Just Transition Commission, will ensure we hold business, government and all other stakeholders to account. We must secure good, green jobs, we must not leave communities abandoned and we must place fair work and workers’ voices at the heart of any just transition.”