The STUC has welcomed support from its affiliated trade union, Prospect for a public inquiry into the tragedy of May 11 2004 that claimed the lives of 9 workers at the ICL plastics factory in Maryhill. Prospect represents the interests of HSE frontline inspectors and has continually campaigned for increased resources for the HSE.
Grahame Smith STUC General Secretary said
“The support of Prospect is very welcome and vitally important in the families campaign to ensure that both the Hollyrood and Westminster Governments ensure that the most comprehensive public inquiry is held. Only this kind of inquiry can provide the answers the families require”.
“The STUC has always supported Prospect’s campaign for increased resources for the HSE including a substantial increase in the number of frontline inspectors. We recognise the commitment of individual inspectors and appreciate the pressure that they face day in and day out trying to ensure that employers are aware of their responsibilities as duty holders and protect their workers in the workplace”.
“Ironically, the STUC gave evidence to this effect to the joint Home Office and Department of Work and Pensions Select Committee on the Health and Safety Commission and Executive on the morning of the tragedy. Unfortunately, the Government refused to act on any of the recommendations put forward by the cross party group”.
“Unfortunately this tragedy, in addition to causing immeasurable pain and suffering on families and survivors, has placed huge stress on individual inspectors, pressure that is exacerbated by working for a Government enforcement agency that has been continually slashed in real terms over the years”.
“The STUC recognises the commitment HSE inspectors have for their profession but have strong concerns continued budgetary constraints and the Governments deregulatory agenda can only undermine this commitment and the valuable role HSE inspectors would want to have in protecting workers.” Ends
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Ian Tasker 0141 337 8100