CIRC 078: THE LATE JOE SIMPSON DEPUTY GENERAL SECRETARY

I indicated in a previous Circular that I would keep the membership updated with any funeral arrangements in respect of Joe. Whilst respecting the privacy of his family and his partner Emma Baker, I can now update you that there will not be a funeral as it was the express wish of Joe Simpson that he had a pure cremation.

I have been informed that once this has been done his ashes will be spread strategically according to his express wishes and this will be a matter for Emma and Joe’s family.

Since the passing of Joe, the number of letters and messages we have received at Cronin House has been amazing and testament as to how Joe was viewed not only by branch officials and members within the POA but the whole trade union movement, politicians, employers and charities.

We are still collating those messages and will forward them all at the appropriate time to his partner Emma Baker. I hope those messages bring Emma and the family comfort at this sad time.

The NEC will be looking in the future for a fitting tribute to Joe that will honour him so that his legacy continues in the POA.

 

Yours sincerely

STEVE GILLAN

General Secretary