AKEL denounces employer’s threats against workers in supermarkets and bakeries
Statement by AKEL C.C. Spokesperson Stefanos Stefanou on confirmation of cases of the virus in bakeries and supermarkets
AKEL C.C. Press Office, 14th April 2020, Nicosia
The fact that cases of coronavirus have been confirmed in bakeries and supermarkets is a major concern for citizens. This development must mobilise the relevant state services to act. There is a danger that what has been achieved so far with citizen’s almost universal compliance with the restrictive measures applied will be lost due to a possible non-compliance with protocols and health measures in these areas.
It goes without saying that protocols and health measures must be strictly and consistently implemented by supermarkets, bakeries, fruit markets and those places that continue to operate and in many cases, with an increased number of consumers.
Strict and continuous controls by the relevant services in these areas are demanded so that its ensured that every measure for the protection of workers and consumers has been taken. It is imperative that supermarkets and bakeries are aired and disinfected regularly and adequately. It is also imperative to assess whether all those working in these specific areas should be tested.
We recall that over the past few days trade unions have made serious complaints about threats of dismissal issued by employers to workers in supermarkets and bakeries to work grueling hours without the necessary protective equipment. The government and relevant government agencies are called upon to act decisively and strictly to stamp out such unacceptable practices that are putting workers, their families and consumers in danger.
