Here, in the first of a series of videos on what Joe Higgins stands for, Joe outlines some of the basic things that should be done to end the unemployment crisis.  He argues we must fight every  wage cut and job loss, which will only make the recession worse.

Joe argues workers, in places like SR Technics, should fight for the nationalisation, under democratic public ownership, of their companies to safe gaurd jobs. This is one of the points he will be raising in his election campaign. More videos of his key demands will be put on the campaigns YouTube channel, available here so make sure to subscribe or check back regularly.

From Joe Higgins’ “Top 10 issues”

1. Defend workers’ rights and communities against EU attacks

Oppose a Lisbon Treaty mark two, EU Directives and European Court of Justice judgements which are either undemocratic or help bosses to impose a “race to the bottom” and help governments impose charges, like water charges in schools. No to the EU policies that are destroying fishing and rural communities.

2. Defend pay & invest in public services

The budget cuts in pay and services will make the crisis and deficit much worse. Decent pay and public services are essential. End the reliance on the private sector, for massive state investment to develop a strong economy that caters for people’s needs.

….

7. Nationalise the banks and tackle the housing crisis

Nationalise the banks and major building companies. For a state-housing plan that outlaws repossessions and reduces total mortgage prices and repayments to afford- able levels. Use vacant properties to provide social and affordable homes to rent or buy in properly resourced communities.

8. Build an economy based on needs and environmental sustainability not profit

Nationalise companies imposing job cuts or closures – like Waterford Crystal and SR Technics – under the democratic control and management of working people. For a plan to develop an environmentally sustainable economy geared to people’s needs not profit.

… To see them all click here.

CHECK OUT OTHER RELATED ARTICLES:

1. Joe Higgins calls for emergency action by the state to create jobs now
2. Video: Joe Higgins – Defending Workers Rights & Public Services
3. Determined fight from unions needed to stop government onslaught
4. Joe Higgins: “Fine Gael’s new Health Policy a Charter for Privatisation”
5. Joe Higgins – Why I’m Standing