Abuse of workers, and of farmers, is widespread in the meat industry. We know this. We also know that with Covid in the mix, this has enormous health implications for the mostly migrant workers, and the communities they live in. And yes, new guidelines have been brought in. But are they enforced? Who’s checking? Are there UNANNOUNCED site visits? I put these and other questions to the Minister in the Dáil
The meat industry has a disgraceful record in relation to Covid with over 1000 cases and no protection for workers. Their representatives appeared before the Dail committee, claiming the complete opposite of what was the reality.
The appalling clusters of Covid infection in the meat industry and the effect on local communities was addressed by Brid in the Dáil 3.6.20
The shameful record of Creed is outlined by Brid to the Minister, accusing him of showing no concern for the workers – 860 of whom are now infected, but rather of showing interest only in defending the interests of the beef barons.beef barons
WHY NO INSPECTIONS OF DANGEROUS WORKPLACES? Over 200 complaints to the Health and Safety Authority, but not one of them investigated. With the opening of construction sites next week, this has serious implications for control of the pandemic as well as the health of constructions workers themselves, their families and communities.