Retail Workers Face Surge in Aggression Post-COVID, Union Warns

URGENT UPDATE: Retail and bar workers in Ireland are experiencing a troubling rise in aggression and abuse, according to new data released by the Mandate Trade Union. During an interview on Newstalk Breakfast this morning, Assistant General Secretary Jim Furey highlighted that incidents of verbal and physical abuse have surged significantly since the end of the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Union’s recent survey reveals alarming statistics: nearly 65% of bar and retail workers reported facing verbal abuse at their workplaces, over 25% have been threatened, and more than 10% have experienced physical assaults. Furey emphasized the severity of the situation, stating, “We can see that our members are contacting the union on a daily basis now in relation to being abused and threatened. Sadly, there seems to be no sign of it ceasing.”

This escalating trend has prompted the proposal of a new legislative measure known as the ‘Retail Workers Bill’, introduced by Senator Mary FitzPatrick. This bill aims to classify acts of abuse or assault against retail workers as criminal offenses, building on the protections established by the Sale of Alcohol Bill in 2022, which made it illegal to mistreat bar staff.

Furey advocates for immediate government support to advance this private members’ bill through the justice department. “We believe it needs to be brought in to the justice department. We believe that the government need to back this private members bill and bring it into legislation as soon as possible,” he asserted.

This surge in aggression not only poses a threat to the safety of workers but also raises concerns about workplace environments across the country. The Union’s findings reflect a growing sentiment that the pandemic has exacerbated tensions in public interactions, leading to an urgent need for protective legislation.

As discussions surrounding the Retail Workers Bill heat up, the community is urged to reflect on the importance of safeguarding those who serve the public. The situation is developing, and further updates will follow as the legislative process unfolds.

For more updates on this pressing issue, stay tuned as we continue to monitor the situation closely. Share this article to raise awareness about the challenges faced by our retail and bar workers today.