Coronavirus: Solidarity with catering workers laid off at UCC

THERE has been widespread solidarity shown with catering workers in University College Cork, who have been laid off from their posts amid the shut-down of the campus.

Kylemore (KSG) has the contract to provide catering services to UCC but, following the Government’s directive to close colleges, it is understood a number of staff who worked in the university have been laid off.

A spokesperson for UCC said: “Kylemore Services Group provides catering services at 115 locations across Ireland — including UCC.

“UCC cannot comment on the operational matters pertaining to another company, however UCC has requested a meeting with KSG about their operations during this Government-directed campus closure.”

Despite being contacted, KSG hasn’t issued a statement on the layoffs.

Solidarity TD Mick Barry is understood to be looking to meet with some of the workers affected.

He has condemned the situation saying any notion of social solidaity has been 'thrown out the window'.

“Many of the Kylemore staff have worked at UCC for years.

“Workers must not be made into sacrificial lambs in this crisis.

“There will be a need for workers’ organisation and for strong voices defending the interests of working people in the weeks ahead,” Mr Barry added.

Sinn Féin TD Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire said: “It is vitally important that staff, and not just academic staff, are supported and protected.

“It is a poor way to treat staff who have given so much service to the college, to students and to staff.

“I have contacted UCC to ascertain as to why this is the case, and have sought clarification as to whether this is a short-term measure or is set to continue indefinitely.

“I hope this situation can be resolved as a matter of urgency,” he concluded.