The Courier & Advertiser (Angus and Dundee)
Operation exposes living conditions
The operation to trace employees of the 2 Sisters factory has exposed the difficult living conditions of some of its workers.
Environmental health officers raised concerns about a property just a few yards from the Coupar Angus plant.
Around 30 people are living in the six-room property, which is listed as a House of Multiple Occupancy.
The Courier understands several occupants tested positive for Covid-19.
Allegations of overcrowding at the property had been flagged up to the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service.
Area Commander Gordon Pryde said: “We are aware of alleged concerns relating to a property within the Perth and Kinross Council area and our specialist officers are available to provide the appropriate support to our local authority partners to address any risks related to fire safety.”
Perth and Kinross Council officials returned yesterday to offer extra support to its residents and landlord.
A spokeswoman said they were “reassured” that there was no need for further action.
“All people in Perth and Kinross deserve to live in safe, sanitary conditions and to be supported through ill health. Council officers attended an HMO in Coupar Angus today to offer support to the landlord and the residents.
“As the household is self-isolating, we are ensuring that residents have sufficient laundry, kitchen, toileting and washing facilities within the property, as well as supplying food.
“Following the visit, officers were reassured that residents were safe and no additional housing needs were identified.”
The 2 Sisters Food Group declined to comment on the living conditions of staff.
Local SNP MP Pete Wishart said: “It is massively concerning to hear that some factory workers are living in accommodation which has many people sharing a room.
“I would argue that that sort of living environment would be unacceptable in normal times, never mind when we are trying to control a deadly virus.”