Gerry Morrissey facts for kids

Gerry Anthony Morrissey was an important leader in British trade unions. He was born in Ireland on April 12, 1960. A trade union is like a club for workers. It helps them get fair pay, good working conditions, and a safe workplace. Gerry Morrissey led a big union called BECTU until he retired in 2018.

Who is Gerry Morrissey?

Gerry Anthony Morrissey was born in Tipperary, Ireland. He went to a local school there called Christian Brothers. He later moved to the United Kingdom.

Starting His Career

Gerry Morrissey began his career at the BBC. He worked as a buyer for catering supplies. In 1977, he joined a union called the Association of Broadcasting Staff. This was his first step into helping workers.

Becoming a Union Leader

As time went on, many unions joined together. The Association of Broadcasting Staff became part of a bigger union. This new union was called the Broadcasting, Entertainment, Cinematograph and Theatre Union (BECTU). Gerry Morrissey became very important in BECTU.

In 1998, he became one of BECTU's Assistant General Secretaries. This means he was one of the main helpers for the union's top leader. Then, in 2007, he was chosen to be the General Secretary of BECTU. This was the top job, leading the whole union.

Leading BECTU and Beyond

Gerry Morrissey worked hard to help people who worked in broadcasting, entertainment, and theatre. He made sure their voices were heard. From 2011, he also had a big role on the world stage. He became the President of the Union Network International's Media and Entertainment International section. This meant he helped workers in media and entertainment all over the world.

Merging with Prospect

In 2017, BECTU joined with another union called Prospect. This made an even bigger union. Gerry Morrissey became the first head of the BECTU part of the new Prospect union. He continued to work for members until his retirement in 2018. After he retired, Philippa Childs took over his role.