MacMerry bosses should be very ashamed

THE thought of anyone working with food or drink being ill and then being forced to continue serving customers is not something to consider.

And the idea this might be happening in some of Dundee’s best bars and restaurants has sent shockwaves through the local hospitality scene.

The claim is among more than 60 alleged wrongdoings been levelled at the directors of MacMerry 300 by more than 50 current or former employees.

From alleged Covid19 outbreaks to bullying claims and pay problems, staff have been driven to Unite to fight for change.

MacMerry 300 group deny all of the allegations, but something does not smell right.

It has been alleged staff were threatened with disciplinary action for wanting to isolate while waiting on Covid test results.

If true, it’s utterly baffling – as are claims adequate PPE was not provided.

The parts that hit hardest are the sexual misconduct and bullying complaints.

In previous roles, I have had customers and colleagues touch and grab me inappropriately, smell my hair and comment on my figure.

That’s not to mention following me home and sending inappropriate messages after finding my private Facebook account.

Staff need to have the support of their managers when it comes to tackling difficult customers and inappropriate colleagues.

Incidents like these can mentally and physically scar people for life and bosses who fail to take their employees’ complaints seriously should hang their heads in shame.

It is hard to run a business but no one can justify putting people in vulnerable situations for profit.

There has been little remorse or compassion shown for those who have spoken out, and far too many questions remain unanswered.

Julia Bryce is head of food and drink at The Courier.