Fife constructions workers frightened to go to work - but fear losing jobs says MSP

Alex Rowley, Labour member for Mid Scotland and Fife, said he had been approached a number of worried workers who say they are frightened to go to work - but also of losing their jobs.

Construction has continued to operate during the current tighter restrictions, but the issue of social distancing and the rise of the new strain of COVID has raised concerns.

Mr Rowley has written to Fiona Hyslop, Cabinet Secretary for economy, fair work and culture raising the issue.

He wants the Scottish Government to give immediate concern to the workers’ fears.

Mr Rowley said: “One worker told me the other day that he works on a site for over 100 workers and there are two small toilets.

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“Another on a large site talked about workers not socially distancing and not being able to do so - as well as no social distancing in the canteen and poor provision of toilets.

“I have had another worker contact me and tell me his wife has been shielding because of illness and he is terrified he will pick the virus up at work and take it home to his wife.”He added: “These kinds of comments and more are reflective of a statement issued by Unite which has been inundated by construction members in a state of fear for themselves and their families, fearful of catching the virus and equally fearful of losing their job and being plunged into poverty if they refuse to work.

“The Government need to address these worries as a matter of urgency.”

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