Conviction and fine for Dungannon gangmaster

A Dungannon based gangmaster was convicted at Omagh Magistrates Court on Tuesday 23 November 2010 on a charge of section 12(1) of the Gangmasters (Licensing) Act 2004.

Mrs Tracy Gallagher of Gallagher Meat Contractors Ltd based in Dungannon but who’s business address is Gortin Road, Omagh pled guilty to the charge of operating as a gangmaster without a licence and was fined £750 and ordered to pay costs.

Mrs Gallagher was found to be supplying workers to a slaughter house business without a Gangmasters Licence between 18 January 2010 and 26 February 2010.

Paul Whitehouse, Chairman on the GLA said

“We hope this conviction will serve as a warning for anybody considering supplying labour without a licence. Those using labour should also double check that their labour provider is licensed.”

Notes to editors

1. The Gangmasters Licensing Authority (GLA) was set up to curb the exploitation of workers in the agricultural, horticultural, shellfish gathering and associated processing and packing industries.

2. Protecting workers is the key aim alongside protecting legitimate labour providers and protecting the tax payer by uncovering unpaid taxes.

3. The GLA regulate the supply of workers and labour services to any of the regulated sectors in the UK

4. A new useful tool has been created by the Association of Labour Providers to assist those working within the GLA licensing scheme. Additionally the ALP works closely with the GLA in its role as a key stakeholder. To find out more about this helpful tool visit www.labourproviders.org.uk or contact on 01276 509306 or info@labourproviders.org.uk

5. Paul Whitehouse Chairman of the GLA is available for interview.

End

Public enquiries: 0845 602 5020

Media enquiries: 0115 900 8962

www.gla.gov.uk