Brumwell: 'We're going in the right direction'

George Brumwell, who retires today as general secretary of UCATT, said this week: “I think we have probably got the nose of the industry pointed in a positive direction and that will bring lasting benefits.”

Brumwell remains as chairman of the CSCS, for which he forecast a big future. “I have a vision of where it should go,” he said. “CSCS is on its way. It will become one of the industry’s big institutions.”

Reflecting on his 12 years at the top of construction’s biggest union, Brumwell continued: “It hasn’t been an easy time for trade unions. But I think I have helped stem the decline.

“The industry has taken a long look at itself. People outside the industry have taken a look at it. And there is a recognition that it has got to sharpen up its act.”

Brumwell said politicians are finally getting the message about self-employment and the damage it was doing to the industry.

He continued: “Our health and safety campaign has been very successful. From being a lone voice, we now find that health and safety is taken seriously right up to the boardroom.”