Pharmacists march to demand action on cost of living in Scotland

Pharmacists, along with workers from other public sector workplaces, marched on 8 September demanding that the Scottish government take all available action to mitigate the biggest reduction in living standards workers will have experienced for generations.

Pharmacists Defence' Association (PDA) members participated in the Scottish Trade Unions Congress (STUC) march to let the government know that “Scotland demands better”.

Paul Flynn, PDA national officer, said: “Pharmacists will be unwelcomely familiar with diminished purchasing power and a squeeze on household budgets for patients, colleagues and pharmacists but what we will see this year and into 2023 will make previous experience pale by comparison.”

The march organised by STUC saw thousands of workers, activists and concerned individuals march through the centre of Edinburgh’s Historic Old Town in good spirits while bearing flags and banners, chanting, singing, and calling for change in Scotland.

“There were calls to action, rousing speeches encouraging the workers to fight for social justice, pledges of solidarity with striking workers in rail, communications, and public services. The assembled workers punctuated these requests with boisterous and unwavering support,” said Paul.

“Most important of all were the calls to ensure that all workers support each other and don’t allow themselves to fall victim to ploys of othering and pitting one group of workers against another. The economic struggles faced in the coming months and years are not unique to any one group and all must stand together and demand they are heeded. The PDA believe pharmacists are ready to act and to support our fellow workers in their struggle.”