The MTL Port Strike in 2009 was an interesting one, as the dock workers did quite well in gathering local support and there was a strong community presence on all the marches and demonstrations at the time.
One of the most innovative forms of protest I can recall took place during this dispute, with the ‘floating picket’ of the workers used against the port.
Now, 18 months on, a 63 year old man involved in the dispute has been arrested and charged. Incredible.
Meanwhile, Sean Fitzpatrick walks his dog in peace.
Gerard Mc Donnell was one of the workers involved in the 2009 MTL Port Strike to save jobs and preserve working conditions in Dublin Port. After 8 long months of struggle a deal was brokered and the strike was ended. Gerard is 63 years old.
On 27th August 2009 there was a ‘floating picket’ involving a small number of boats in the harbour. Gerard was recently arrrested and charged in relation to this event. He is facing 3 serious charges under the maritime safety act with a fine of up to €250,000 hanging over his and his families head. He was arrested, handcuffed and thrown in a cell.
Dont let the State stamp on Gerard!
He should have joined a golf club. Their members can defraud the country, borrow millions they don’t have to pay back and still tee off.
[…] sees another protest at Parkgate Street in relation to the case of Gerald McDonnell, the 63 year old Dublin Port worker up in court over the ‘floating picket’ that formed part of that 8 month dispute in 2009, has been adjourned […]