Coronavirus: NI meatpackers ‘at risk of USA-style outbreaks’

Unite the union has issued a call for an immediate testing programme for all meatpacking workers after “a growing number of clusters of Covid-19 infections” in Northern Ireland.

In the USA, coronavirus cases tied to outbreaks at meatpacking plants passed 10,000, according to Midwest Center for Investigative Reporting.

Davy Kettyles, a senior organiser for Unite, said workers here could face a similar situation unless action is taken.

“Unite is aware of a growing number of clusters of Covid-19 infections in the sector,” he said.

“In the case of Linden Foods in Granville, Dungannon we have repeatedly sought effective infection control measures to secure the health and safety of our members and called on the HSE (Health and Safety Executive) on many occasions to conduct a physical inspection.”

In March, workers staged a protest at Linden Foods over social distancing measures for workers.

Mr Kettyles added: “Now we understand from workers that at least seven Covid-19 cases have been confirmed at the Linden Foods site. The workers are hugely concerned for their safety. We are also hearing of similar reports at a number of other sites.

“In the USA, more than 10,000 meat workers have tested positive for Covid-19 with at least 45 fatalities. In the Republic, we have seen outbreak control teams sent to deal with clusters but the Northern Ireland Executive has done nothing.”

The News Letter attempted to contact Linden Foods. In a previous statement to this newspaper, a spokesperson said safety is the “utmost priority”.