Jamieson calls for extension of Emergency Workers Act - Shop workers need protection

Labour leadership contender Cathy Jamieson has called for an extension of the Emergency Workers Act to include others workers who serve the public - including shop workers and bar staff.

Ms Jamieson said:

"People who deal with the public provide a great service to our society, and should be able to go about their work without fear of attack or intimidation.

"I want to see the existing legislation widened to allow courts to deal with incidents as a specific offence carrying a maximum penalty of nine months in jail, a fine of £5,000 - or both.

"It will allow courts to send out a powerful signal that we will not tolerate anything which prevents people who work with the public from going about their jobs.

"Under the current legislation covering emergency workers there is a provision to add other groups by order and the SNP should do this as soon as is feasible.

"We have heard this year about staff who work in shops, pubs, and betting shops facing intimidation and violence.

"It's time that the law was tilted in their favour."

John Hannett, Usdaw General Secretary, said:

"This is exactly the kind of thing we want to be hearing from our politicians.

"Cathy Jamieson MSP clearly understands the needs of shopworkers to be protected from violence.

"I appreciate her taking the time to meet with Usdaw members to learn more about their personal experiences.

"We have been campaigning for 'Freedom From Fear' for shopworkers for several years now, as retail staff increasingly experience violence and threats of violence in the workplace.

"Cathy has been a strong supporter of Freedom From Fear throughout the campaign, including during her time as Justice Minister.

"We are delighted with today's commitment to further action, which shows that Cathy is listening and we wish her all the best in her campaign to become leader of the Labour Party in the Scottish Parliament"


Published and promoted by Hugh Henry, on behalf of Cathy Jamieson. All care of 6 Parkinch, Erskine, PA8 7HZ.