SIPTU has called on the Government to introduce changes to workplace safety in meat factories following a Migrants Rights Centre (MRCI) report which it says “reveals a sector where low pay, poor terms and conditions and a disgraceful health and safety record are the norm”.

Almost 60% of 150 migrant workers surveyed said they had been injured at work.

However, Meat Industry Ireland said it strongly refuted the MRCI claims.

“The findings of multiple inspections by the HSA [Health and Safety Authority] across the industry in recent times do not support the allegations being made by MCRI,” its spokesperson said.