Protest bids to highlight dangers at work

Dangerous conditions in Irish workplaces are leading to far too many deaths, campaigners said today.

There were 73 workers killed last year, with construction and agriculture the most hazardous sectors.

The Labour Party is among several organisations taking part in a protest outside the Health and Safety Authority’s offices in Dublin today to mark International Workers’ Memorial Day.

“Two million people are killed at work every year according to the International Labour Organisation. Workers’ Memorial Day remembers those who have died as a result of workplace accidents and reminds us of the need for better safety standards,” said Dublin North TD Sean Ryan.

The protest will be led by the family of Justin Foley, a 21-year old transport clerk who was crushed by an articulated truck as he attempted to load it in Ballymun.

The inquest into his death found there were no safety procedures in place and returned a verdict of accidental death.

Mr Ryan said his family were pursuing a civil action against the company involved.

“Tomorrow is an opportunity to express solidarity with the family and to campaign for better workplace conditions. Hopefully fewer families will have to suffer the pain that the Foley family have experienced in recent years,” he said.

SIPTU is calling on all workers to mark the day by observing a minute’s silence at 12 noon, by electing safety representatives where there are none and by raising health and safety issues at their workplace.

SIPTU Health and Safety official, Sylvester Cronin said the number of recorded workplace deaths was only the tip of the iceberg.

“Those who die from work-related road traffic accidents, illnesses and diseases are not included. The true level of work-related deaths in Ireland is nearer to 500 a year,” he said.