April 2025
REGIONAL NEWSLETTER
Issue 21
CONTACT US:
North East Region
Your North East Regional Council can be contacted at: NorthEastRegionalCouncil@rmt.org.uk And on our X (Twitter): @RMTNorthEast
NEW GENERAL SECRETARY FOR RMT Eddie Dempsey takes over from Mick Lynch After Mick Lynch’s retirement, the North East region welcomes Eddie Dempsey into the position of General Secretary. Eddie has always been a friend to our region, regularly visiting branches and attending events in the North East, taking a keen interest in the struggles of members from every sector. For those who don’t already know, Eddie Dempsey has risen through the ranks of RMT, previously as a Regional Organiser and as Senior Assistant General Secretary. He of course started out on the front lines, with railway roles including station staff and train driver. He has supported the union throughout many disputes, and has been a key figure in fighting for our members’ jobs, pay and security over the years. Eddie has pledged to continue RMT’s tradition of industrial strength and tough negotiation to protect members’ interests. Eddie Dempsey responded to his election: “I am honoured to be elected as RMT General Secretary. Our union has a proud history of standing up for working people, and I will ensure that continues. The challenges ahead are significant, but we will meet them with the same unity, strength, and determination that defines RMT. "I want to pay tribute to Mick Lynch for his leadership and dedication to our members – he has set a high bar, and I will do my utmost to build on his legacy.” The North East region wishes Eddie luck in his new role, and looks forward to seeing him in the region soon. John Leach, previously Assistant General Secretary, has moved into Eddie’s previous role as Senior Assistant General Secretary. Ballot papers for the election for the new Assistant General Secretary will be sent out to members in the next few weeks.