Union boss sad but sure about stepping down

Eric Holmes retires early due to health issues

A union boss says it's time to put his family and his health first, as he prepares to step down.

A few years ahead of schedule, Eric Holmes will leave his post as head of Unite on the Island next month, when he turns 60.

He's retiring early after being diagnosed with a pulmonary disease - caused by working with asbestos in a shipyard as an 18 year-old apprentice.

A saddened Mr Holmes says it’s one of the most difficult decisions he's had to make.