Workers Cry Fowl Over Flu

Australian food workers say they are being kept in the dark over the government’s response to bird flu.

The claim follows the first reported death of a poultry worker from the virus in China.

Australasian Meat Industry Employees Union Secretary Ross Richardson said workers held fears for both their health and jobs, as concern about bird flu grew.

"We're afraid if the disease breaks out, consumer panic will lead to job losses in the industry," Richardson said.

He said members had contacted him with fears about not being told enough about what was being done to control an outbreak.

Richardson's concerns are being echoed international, with the global food workers' union calling for more action from authorities.

"The IUF is therefore again calling on these international agencies to develop national and international action plans and guidelines to defend public health based on the specific needs of the food and agricultural workers who are in the frontline of exposure to the virus," a statement from the International Union of Food Workers' Associations says.

The AMIEU is preparing a submission to various parties, including Health Minister Tony Abbott, highlighting their demands - including that chicken workers are the first in line for vaccination shots.

"We're seeking from the government information regarding what progress and what steps are being taken to combat bird flu," Richardson said.

Chinese Government officials last month confirmed bird flu killed a commercial poultry worker in the eastern province of Anhui.

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Last modified: Thursday, 01-Dec-2005 15:59:23 EST