Unite convenor at the port and Unite executive member for docks, Andy Green, said:
“A close and loving family have lost a husband and father and his colleagues have lost a truly wonderful friend. They only want to help in this tragedy and to learn what happened and why, that isn’t too much to ask.
“Our members are deeply shocked that the HSE (Health and Safety Executive) has not responded to calls from Unite representatives at the port to launch an investigation, and that the company has chosen not to conduct a joint investigation alongside the Unite safety representatives, as set out in the company’s own Health and Safety Policy.
“We are at a loss then to know why the HSE will not speak to us, their behaviour is nothing short of shameful. However, we have been touched by the kind words of condolence from dockworkers in every port throughout the UK. Our union will always fight for truth and justice and to help the loved ones left behind who have to bear the real burden of workplace deaths.”
Speaking on National Inspection Day (26th October), which is supported throughout Europe, Unite’s national officer for docks, Julia Long, called for health and safety action across all ports to reflect the dangers within the port industry. She said: “The government has set the ports as a ‘low risk’ industry. This tragic incident shows that the government needs to have a rethink on their position. And we are calling for the company to carry out a full investigation with our health and safety reps fully involved.
“Unite will leave no stone unturned in its efforts to understand how this terrible accident was able to happen. We now call on the HSE and port management to work with us and immediately launch an urgent joint investigation into what happened.”