Rodney is the reason I am now working as National Secretary for the largest Irish public services union Forsa. I started work as a student nurse in Harringey at the North Middx Hospital in the 80s. Quickly became a NUPE Steward and eventually convenor.
I have worked as an offical for a number of unions at regional and national level in the UK and Ireland. Rodney was the inspiration for me and many others. I remember listening to him speak and feeling the hairs on the back of my neck rise up. We would have followed him anywhere.
I remember his courage and sheer presence bringing us through difficult times.
I was so sad to hear that he has passed away.
I have only now discovered your website and it is a great tribute to him and his beliefs.
Congratulations on putting it together it’s wonderful.
I often think of Rodney, I represent thousands of non teaching staff in schools so the pictures of him at the school meals rally really touched me.
His legacy lives on and I know he is greatly missed. Figures like Rodney don’t come along very often.
Best wishes
Andy Pike
Head of Education
FORSA Trade Union
Dublin