NEWS RELEASE Friday, 26 November 2004
STUC dismayed at lack of Christmas cheer from Stockline employers The STUC has expressed dismay at the decision by employers of those injured in the Maryhill tragedy to withdraw their enhanced sick pay arrangements to coincide with the ending of workers entitlement to Statutory Sick Pay.
While the STUC acknowledges the latest communication from the company outlines further discretionary payments while benefits are being processed they are concerned at the latest communication with workers, the first they believe since the 29th June.
Ian Tasker, STUC Assistant Secretary who also co-ordinates the workers support group said
"As far as we are aware the company have sent five letters to workers since the tragic events of the 11th May, three between the accident and the end of May, one on the 29th June advising of cuts in pay arrangements and this latest letter that leaves the workers facing an unhappy Christmas and a miserable new year".
"We have made the effort to contact a number of workers and it is clear that this increasing uncertainty has lead to increased anxiety of the workers, all of whom continue to suffer from physical and psychological injury".
"It is staggering that over seven months have passed since the tragedy and the company have made no effort to engage with workers on a personal basis. They rely on sporadic written communication to enquire about the health and welfare of those most directly affected by the events of 11th May".
"We would suggest that the Directors of ICL Plastics should consider utilising any remaining funds in their own Hopehill Trust to make ex-gratia payments to those who continue to suffer ill health and injury following this disaster".
"We would also urge workers facing additional hardship during the Christmas period to make application for grants to the Grovepark Fund to which the people of Glasgow and further a field have so generously contributed". ENDS
For further information please contact Ian Tasker