A Public Consultation has been launched by the Gangmasters Licensing Authority (GLA), asking views of anyone involved in the shellfish industry and other interested parties what standards need to be addressed to meet safer working conditions.
Gangmasters can apply for a "shellfish gathering" license from 1 October 2006, allowing a 6 month changover period, prior to implementation of the new scheme in April 2007, when holding a license becomes mandatory.
The new licensing scheme is aimed at preventing the exploitation of shellfish gatherers and preventing deaths such as in the Morecambe Bay Tragedy.
Chief Executive of the Gangmasters Licensing Authority, Mr. Mike Wilson, said:
"We want to hear from those affected to make sure workers understand the protection afforded to them by the law, if they are unsure of their rights or encounter problems they should contact the GLA.
"Through licensing, everyone in the food supply chain will ultimately be able to distinguish the legal operators from the illegal ones"
Mr. Paul Whitehouse, Chairman of the GLA also commented:
"We do not want history to repeat itself, by regulating this sector we hope to avoid future tragedies.
"The GLA has been set up to safeguard the welfare and interests of workers, it's in everybody's interests to ensure that those who gather shellfish are protected."
Many events, throughout the UK, have been organised by the GLA, providing an opportunity for Gangmasters and providers to hear more about the new licensing scheme.
The venue for the Consultation events is as follows:
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Lancaster - Thursday 8 June 2006
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Edinburgh - Wednesday 14 June 2006
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North Wales - Tuesday 27 June 2006
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Swansea - Wednesday 28 June 2006.
The closing date for the consultation is the 5 July 2006.
Further information and Consultation applications etc can be accessed from the GLA Website by clicking the following:
Gangmasters Licensing Authority Website
Article by Alexandra Johnston
