NEWS RELEASE STUC GENERAL SECRETARY CALLS ON BOSSES AND MSPs TO BACK ACTION AGAINST "SCUM" WHO ATTACK EMERGENCY WORKERS
Speaking in advance of the Executive - led Scottish Parliament debate on Protection of Emergency Workers (15 January 2004), STUC General Secretary Bill Speirs said:
"No-one should have to work in fear of violence and violence against those working in emergency situations, on whom we all rely, cannot be tolerated.
"The STUC warmly welcomes the Executive's commitment to tackle this issue.
"We support tougher sentences for the scum who attack emergency workers and those assisting them in emergency situations. The definition of emergency worker and emergency situation will, clearly, be significant and we are using the consultation period to make the case for the maximum protection for those workers who serve the public.
"We also welcome the commitment to other measures to reinforce the message that all attacks on workers are unacceptable. While tougher sentencing will be useful, proactive measures to reduce risk and prevent harm are similarly important.
"We are working with the Executive on the detail of the these measures promoting training and risk assessment for those workers who serve the public in whatever capacity; proper staffing levels; adequate safety equipment and appropriate security measures; and a range of public awareness and educational initiatives.
"Our affiliated trade unions are already pursuing these measures, working with employers in the public and private sectors.
"A zero tolerance approach to violence at work in Scotland is overdue. And we want MSPs and employers in Scotland to get behind that campaign".
ENDS
For further details contact
Tel: 0141 337 8100 / Fax: 0141 337 8101 www.stuc.org.uk
Bill Speirs: 07814 777714 0141 337 8100
David Moxham: 0141 337 8145