Addressing the conference at Blackpool’s, Paddy Lillis – Usdaw General Secretary said: “The Queen's death was a profound moment in our history. As our longest reigning monarch, Queen Elizabeth's life spanned the entire history of modern Britain. A new bank holiday would acknowledge her unique place in our history and a petition calling for this gathered more than 100,000 signatures last year.
 
“We have longstanding union policy calling for additional bank holidays more generally. Bank holidays provide a much needed break and allow people to spend time with their loved ones. In comparison to the European average of 12.8 public holidays, Northern Ireland recognises 10 bank holidays, in Scotland there are 9 bank holidays and in England and Wales there are only 8 bank holidays per year. 
 
“The TUC has already called on the Government to create 4 new public holidays. Usdaw is in favour of introducing additional bank holidays for all workers. More public holidays would recognise the contribution that workers make and bring us more in line with other countries across the globe.
 
“It would be appropriate if one of these additional days was set aside to remember the anniversary of the Queen's death. Bank holidays are not only about rest and relaxation. They are also an opportunity to celebrate our culture and traditions. Many bank holidays have historical and cultural significance. This holiday would be a recognition of the unique place the Queen holds in our history.
 
“In today's society, we all lead busy lives and amidst our hectic schedules, we often forget to take time to pause and reflect. This additional bank holiday would give people an opportunity to do just that.”

Notes for editors:

Usdaw (Union of Shop, Distributive and Allied Workers) is the UK's fifth biggest trade union with over 350,000 members. Most Usdaw members work in the retail sector, but the union also has many members in transport, distribution, food manufacturing, chemical industry and other trades www.usdaw.org.uk

For further information please contact Usdaw’s Media Officer, David Williams on: 0161 249 2469, 07798 696 603 or by e-mail to [email protected]

For Usdaw press releases visit: http://www.usdaw.org.uk/news and you can follow us on Twitter @UsdawUnion