Usdaw calls to protect NI retail workers from abuse, threats and violence

Paddy Lillis – Usdaw General Secretary says, “It is heart-breaking to hear these testimonies from Northern Irish shopworkers who deserve far more respect than they receive. Our latest survey results clearly show the scale of the appalling violence, threats and abuse faced by shopworkers.

“Usdaw, with the support of many retailers, has won new legislation to protect shop workers from violence, threats and abuse in Scotland, Wales and England. Although this is a positive development in our campaign, it is extremely disappointing that retail workers in Northern Ireland are not covered.

“All retail workers deserve legal protection from abuse, threats and violence. Effective legislation must be passed in Northern Ireland to protect retail workers and make it clear abuse is not part of the job. Usdaw is calling on the ICTU to campaign for a Northern Ireland Government to take action and implement effective legislation which protects retail workers against abuse, threats and violence.”