The RMT has announced that former railway worker Eddie Dempsey has been elected unopposed as the new general secretary. He was previously senior assistant general secretary, and will take over from Mick Lynch tomorrow.

The RMT said he has ‘pledged to continue RMT’s tradition of industrial strength and tough negotiation to protect members’ interests’.

He joined the railway in 2008 and has worked as a member of station staff and also as a train driver.

Outgoing general secretary Mick Lynch welcomed the election and expressed confidence in his leadership.

He said: ‘It has been an honour to serve as RMT general secretary, representing our members in their struggles for better pay terms and conditions. Eddie Dempsey is a committed trade unionist who has played a pivotal role in our union's recent successes.

‘He has the experience, determination, and leadership qualities to take RMT forward, and I have every confidence that he will continue to stand up for our members with strength and resolve.’

Eddie Dempsey said he was ‘honoured’ to have been chosen. He continued: ‘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.’

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