Media Advisory - XL Foods still refusing to address food safety issues flagged by union

EDMONTON, Oct. 9, 2012 /CNW/ -The leader of the union representing workers at the XL Foods cattle processing plant will hold a news conference in Brooks at 2:00 p.m. tomorrow to talk about the desperate need for an improved "food safety culture" at the plant.

"Workers at XL Foods in Brooks want to be part of the solution," Doug O'Halloran, president of United Food and Commercial Workers Local 401, said. "They're going to be back at work in a few days, but nothing has been done to address the issues that led to this problem."

O'Halloran says the union has been raising concerns about training for temporary foreign workers, line speed and the need for whistleblower protection for years.

"Cleanliness and safety need to be the priorities when it comes to the food that is being put on Canadian tables," O'Halloran said. "We've dealt with other CEOs in the meatpacking industry, but we've never come across anyone who wouldn't at least meet with us to talk about food safety."

O'Halloran will be joined at the event by Alberta Federation of Labour president Gil McGowan.

Wednesday, October 10, 2012
2:00 p.m.
Heritage Inn Hotel & Convention Centre Brooks
1217 - 2nd Street West
Brooks, AB

SOURCE: Alberta Federation of Labour

Gil McGowan, President, Alberta Federation of Labour [phone]