Gangmasters Licensing Authority

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The GLA is a government agency set up to protect workers from exploitation in agriculture, horticulture, shellfish gathering and food processing and packaging.

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Can You Find The Cockle Shells

Can you find the cockle shells
When the tide is high?
Do not talk, as no one hears
Though you try and try

Can you find the cockle shells
When the tide comes in?
Do not talk, as no one hears
You must sink or swim

Can you find the cockle shells
Underneath the sea?
Can you find your way through darkness?
Who will set you free?

Can you find the cockle shells
Here on Morcambe Bay?
China’s seas are your past now
So very far away.

Can you find the cockle shells
Scattered on the shore?
Do you feel the water rise?
Can you still find more?

In memory of the Chinese cockle pickers who died at Morecambe Bay on 5 February 2004

By Lily Lyth, aged 13
St George’s School for Girls
Edinburgh