Mark Stands With Shop Workers
Mark Griffin MSP supports Usdaw's campaign to protect shop workers from violence, threats and abuse, especially with Christmas just around the corner.
Mr Griffin has joined with members of the retail union Usdaw to campaign for respect for shop workers as part of the Freedom From Fear Campaign, which seeks to prevent violence, threats and abuse directed at retail staff. Usdaw members are highlighting the problems faced by staff during Respect for Shop workers Week, which runs from 9 to 13 November.
Mark said:
"Retail employees are confronted with violence, threats and abuse on a daily basis. Such acts are wholly unacceptable and it is vital that people across our communities stand together and show respect to shop workers, especially as we approach the busy Christmas shopping period and the Black Friday sales.
"I strongly support Usdaw's call for the Scottish Government to introduce a new law protecting shop workers and other public-facing workers from assault. They failed to support a Scottish Labour proposal on this matter in the past, and shop workers have paid the price.
"I will continue to campaign with Usdaw to provide shop workers the support they need and deserve. We must give a clear message that abusing or assaulting workers who are serving the public is totally unacceptable."
John Hannett,Usdaw General Secretary, added:
"We are grateful to Mark Griffin for supporting our campaign to keep our members safe at work.
"Often, in the course of their duties, shop workers are expected to enforce the law, whether that is preventing under-age purchases of products like knives, tobacco or alcohol, or detaining shoplifters until the police arrive, they deserve respect and protection.
"Over 300 shop workers are assaulted every day and it is time to say enough is enough. Politicians must work together to address this issue and act quickly."
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