We Need To Act To Protect The Vulnerable And Workers Rights

Following the Derry and Strabane Council Covid full member Briefing held virtually today People Before Profit Cllr Shaun Harkin said, 
 
“Once again people across the Derry and Strabane Council area are responding to the call to put health and safety first in order to protect themselves and the most vulnerable. 
 
To assist this effort we’ve suggested the Council make masks freely available and accessible across the district area. With so many in hardship we know this help would be welcomed and will further encourage people to wear masks as an act of solidarity. 
 
The Executive has refused to do this but has instead focused increasingly aggressive individual enforcement. However, given the seriousness of the situation in Derry and the North West we shouldn’t wait on the Executive. 
 
We’ve also proposed the Council use its platform to encourage workers to utilise their right to refuse individually or collectively to work in an unsafe workplace. Many aren’t aware this is legally protected action and fear the loss of income or retribution. In all the discussions of enforcement, the right to enforce a safe work environment is indisputable. This form of enforcement wouldn’t be viewed as draconian, as other proposed increased enforcement measures are and will be. 
 
In our opinion, the Executive must take responsibility for the massive increase of infections whilst the Tories push ahead with their disastrous plan to end the furlough scheme. We encourage people to act to protect the vulnerable and make sure those with the least don’t suffer the most.”