The union says it has written to the Department for the Economy’s Employment Agency Inspectorate, calling for an investigation into the use of agency workers at the site, which is currently at the centre of an ongoing industrial dispute.
Specifically, Unite has asked the Northern Ireland Executive to ascertain whether agency workers brought in by Pilgrim’s during the strike are performing duties normally undertaken by employees participating in industrial action.
Under the Conduct of Employment Agencies and Employment Businesses Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2005, it is a criminal offence for employment agencies to supply labour to employers specifically for the purpose of covering work normally carried out by employees taking part in lawful industrial action.
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “Pilgrim’s is desperately trying to continue production, rather than give the workers a fair pay increase.
“It’s illegal to bring agency workers in to cover striking workers and this matter must immediately be investigated and action taken.”
Workers at the factory are now entering their sixth week of strike action over pay and conditions, with the dispute centring on the unequal payment of breaks for workers on morning and evening shifts.
The Enniskillen site produces a range of Pilgrim’s Europe products, including Fridge Raiders, Richmond and Denny sausages, and Mr Brains Pork Faggots.
Unite regional officer Greg O’Kane added: “Over the last few weeks, we know the number of workers being bussed into Pilgrim’s daily from Armagh has surged.
“In recent days, the agency posted advertisements for immediate-start positions at the factory. The Department for the Economy needs to act urgently to ensure the right of workers to undertake lawful industrial action is protected.”
No evidence of any wrongdoing by Pilgrim’s Europe has been identified at this stage, and in a statement given to Food Manufacture, a company spokesperson said: “There is no basis to Unite’s claim which we have only learned about through the Union’s press release.
“We are fully satisfied that we are operating in accordance with the law as we seek to mitigate the impact of strike action amongst a minority of employees at our Enniskillen site. We are grateful to our staff members for their support, professionalism, and teamwork in helping to maintain operations.”
