The Government must stop cuts to the funding of the Health and Safety Authority (HSA) and oppose EU deregulation plans for safety regulation in order to halt a rise in work related deaths, according to SIPTU. 

Figures released by the HSA on Tuesday, 6th January show that 55 people were killed in work related accidents last year, compared to 47 in 2013.

SIPTU Health and Safety Advisor, Sylvester Cronin, said: “SIPTU has on numerous occasions warned that reductions on preventative services would inevitably lead to increases in work-related accidents, illnesses and deaths. Sadly it would seem our fears have materalised.

“The Government must also stand up to the EU Commission’s attempts to deregulate occupational safety and health legislation or we will see more alarming increases in work related accidents, illnesses and deaths.”

SIPTU calls for Government action to halt rise in workplace deaths