The GMB Union in Glasgow is calling for a “vermin emergency” to be declared due to sightings of giant rats in the city. Union members report that refuse and cleansing staff are being attacked by these large rodents, which are the size of cats or small dogs. Workers have even been instructed to kick bins before opening them to check for rats. The union says the situation is getting worse and is urging authorities to address the issue. The Council has stated that staff health and safety is a priority and that they have procedures in place to protect workers from infestations.
The GMB Union is demanding that Glasgow City Council take immediate action to address the growing rat problem in the city. Workers have reported receiving emergency treatment for bites and scratches from the vermin, and the situation is becoming increasingly dangerous. The union wants the Council to declare a “vermin emergency” to address the issue and prevent further harm to staff. They are also calling on First Minister Humza Yousaf to witness the problem firsthand and take action.
The Council has responded to the union’s concerns by stating that they are working with all available staff to address the issue and that they have strategies in place to manage staff absences. The implementation of on-street bin hub projects is expected to increase efficiency in refuse collection, allowing staff to focus on other environmental tasks. The Council emphasizes that the health and safety of their employees is a top priority and that they have established procedures to protect them from infestations. They also stress the importance of proper waste containment to deter rats from entering properties.
The GMB Union reports that the situation is escalating and that more needs to be done to address the growing rat population in Glasgow. Workers are facing dangerous conditions, with reports of rats as large as cats or small dogs being seen in the city. The union attributes this increase in vermin to cuts in pest control and other essential services, creating a public health risk. They are calling on the authorities to take immediate action to protect workers and prevent further attacks by these giant rodents.
The Council has assured the public that only a small percentage of properties in Glasgow are affected by rats at any given time. However, the GMB Union and workers on the frontline maintain that the situation is worsening and is becoming increasingly difficult to manage. The union is urging for more government intervention and resources to address the rat problem and protect workers. They are calling for greater investment in pest control and other essential services to prevent further attacks and keep workers safe.
In conclusion, the rat infestation problem in Glasgow is a serious issue that is impacting the health and safety of refuse and cleansing staff. The GMB Union is calling for urgent action from authorities to declare a “vermin emergency” and address the growing rat population in the city. Workers are facing dangerous conditions, with reports of large rats attacking staff. The Council has procedures in place to protect workers, but more needs to be done to address the root cause of the issue. The situation is escalating, and it is crucial for the authorities to take immediate action to protect workers and prevent further attacks by these giant vermin.
