PA story sparks national debate

Aug 22 2008 by Jenny Wood, Perthshire Advertiser Friday

THE PLIGHT of migrant workers went national after the PA’s investigation into the treatment of local soft fruit pickers.

John Park, a Labour MSP for mid Scotland and Fife, is taking forward the fight for better standards for migrant workers and has prompted a debate in Holyrood calling for more protection for oversees’ staff.

He told the PA that recent news articles led him to initiate proceedings for a debate in the Scottish Parliament, he has also aired his concerns with Hilary Benn – the UK’s Secretary of State of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs – and Richard Lochhead – Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs and the Environment.

In his motion he explained he wanted the parliament to “understand that many farmers in the fruit and vegetable sectors are reliant on migrant labour but expresses concern that many migrant workers have to endure squalid living and working conditions”.

Hailing Scottish produce as “among the best in the world” he voiced concern “that this reputation for excellence could be tainted by the exploitative practices of a minority of employers”.

Mr Park welcomed investigations by authorities into rogue employers, which he hoped might help restore public confidence in the industry.

And applauded the work of trade unions to promote migrant workers’ rights.

Motions can be lodged to Holyrood for debate in Parliament, to propose that legislation is agreed to or passed or simply to generate support.