Union Calls for Clarity for Construction Workers Amid Covid-19 Outbreak

CONSTRUCTION WORKERS, many of whom act as self-employed contractors, are in urgent need clarity over their financial status according to union Unite.

According to the union’s general secretary, Len McClusky, the confusion for those workingin the industry is at odds with the scale of the national emergency.

It comes as photos emerged of packed underground stations in London, with passengers unable to observe the social distancing requirement of two metres space.

Work alongside unions

McCluskey also urged the government to work more closely with trade unions in order to get the correct measures in place for working people,

He said, “The prime minister has asked us all to play our part in the enormous national effort to save lives and beat the Covid-19 virus.

“But the stark reality is that millions of workers are confused about whether or not they can or should be at work.

“At the same time, the millions of self-employed and insecure workers across the country will dread being sent home because it means that they will have no wage.

“The government must work with trade unions to define the tougher isolation rules because we understand the reality of the workplace. Had the government talked to us beforehand, for example, we would have been able to spell out to them how their new measures would be met by workers in construction and its supply chain.

“Without swift clarity for millions of insecure and uncertain workers about whether they can be at work or not, and without removing the agonising choice between health and hardship, then the positive measures announced by the chancellor last week will be overshadowed and public health efforts will be severely compromised.

“Confused messages and lack of financial support are at odds with the urgency of this health emergency.  Workers need clear direction and protection from government now.”