Outbreak at Ballymena bus factory results in ten positive cases and three-day shutdown

George Brash, Unite Regional Officer challenged Nu-Track management to take immediate measures to properly address an outbreak at the Ballymena bus manufacturer.

“Unite has consistently raised concerns in regard to Covid-19 infection control measures at Nu-Track. In particular we objected to work practices such as excessive numbers working on buses which flouted social-distancing guidelines.

“We are therefore not surprised at the fact that an outbreak has been confirmed at the factory. In response to ten workers testing positive for the virus, management have closed the site for a period of 3 days to facilitate a deep-cleanse.

“It is vital that full pay is provided to all workers who have to self-isolate for the duration of their absence from work. It is totally unacceptable that workers are being left reliant on statutory sick pay of a mere £95.85 a week. No worker who wants to do the right thing and self-isolate should have to face the price of putting themselves and their families into poverty as a result.

“Nu-Track management must ensure a comprehensive suite of measures to prevent further outbreaks – that includes safe working practices which afford adequate social-distancing and a commitment that those needing to self-isolate are provided full pay for the duration of their absence”, Mr Brash concluded.