TSSA marks the passing of former General Secretary Gerry Doherty

TSSA today (Monday) marked the death on Sunday of former General Secretary Gerry Doherty.

A lifelong railwayman, Gerard “Gerry” Doherty began his career with British Rail and joined the TSSA in 1972, quickly becoming chair of his branch. He was elected to the Executive Committee in 1988. 

Gerry began work for TSSA in 1991, working as its Irish Secretary. He was elected General Secretary in 2004, a position he held until retirement in 2011. Under his leadership TSSA redefined itself, becoming an organising union and embracing the union learning agenda. 

Gerry also served on the General Council and the Executive Committee of the Trades Union Congress (TUC) and was also a member of the Commission for Integrated Transport.

A fierce opponent of rail ­privatisation he was elected as General Secretary on a pledge to keep the union’s affiliated link with the Labour Party. He maintained his relationship with TSSA after his retirement, becoming our nominee to the Trustees of the Railways Pension Scheme. 

A life-long supporter of Celtic Football Club, Gerry died on 3^rd September 2023, aged 70, after a short illness. He is survived by his wife, Anne, and his children. TSSA extend their sympathies to Gerry's friends and family.

His funeral takes place on Wednesday  20th September, Masonhill Crematorium in Ayr KA6 6EN, at 11.15 am