The deciduous fruit producers’ organisation Hortgro has raised concerns about the Department of Labour’s unannounced, unscheduled arrival on farms for inspection, pointing out that farms and packhouses should not unnecessarily allow outsiders onto their premises – a factor that increases the risk of spreading the infection.
“Not even the exporters are allowed into the packhouses, only authorised personnel,” a spokesman said. “We have addressed this with officials and urge producers/managers not to allow anyone onto the premises without appointments, and if so only one person at a time.”
The organisation believes that labour unions and NGOs are using the crisis for their own advancement by spreading fake news and unsubstantiated accusations.