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HEROIC gallery stewards involved in one of the longest strikes in recent history were applauded back to work today.
Workers at London’s flagship National Gallery were unable to see off the privatisation of security and visitor services jobs — but bosses have agreed to protect terms and conditions and pay the living wage.
After 111 days of strike action, public-sector union PCS also secured the reinstatement of lead rep Candy Udwin, who was sacked for passing on details of the cost of outsourcing to the union.
Ms Udwin told the hundred-odd staff that they had been an inspiration to workers across the country.
PCS general secretary Mark Serwotka said: “We still do not believe privatisation was necessary but we will work with the new company and the gallery to ensure a smooth transition and, importantly, to ensure standards are maintained at this world-renowned institution.”
The gallery’s new director Gabriele Finaldi, who is thought to have taken a more conciliatory approach than his predecessor Nicholas Penny, shook hands with workers as they returned.
