Cork delivery drivers set to take strike action this evening
App-based food delivery driver will go on strike for five hours from 5pm this evening
A number of delivery drivers in Cork are set to strike tonight from between 5pm and 10pm, and will gather to protest in the city at the same time.
They will join protesting Deliveroo, Just Eat and Uber Eats delivery workers in Dublin, the UK and the US, who will be turning off their apps for five hours on Valentine’s Day.
The drivers are protesting at what they say is an often dangerous job with very low pay - with workers being paid as little as €1 per order in some cases.
Cork delivery driver Felipe Pessoa told : “The main reason for the strike is because it has been years since Deliveroo has increased the prices of orders.
“The minimum wage increases every year but the value of minimum orders has been stuck at €2.90 for years,” he continued.
People Before Profit/Solidarity TD Mick Barry expressed strong support for the food delivery workers.
"I am calling on the general public to show a little love for these workers on Valentine's Day by boycotting Deliveroo, Just Eat and Uber Eats this evening," said Mr Barry.
“One euro per delivery is a ridiculous wage at any time let alone in a cost of living crisis, when many of these workers are still paying off loans on their bikes”.
Mr Barry, a member of the Oireachtas Committee on Enterprise, Trade and Employment, added: “I hope the action is a success tonight and I hope there is strong public support for their stand."
A spokesperson for Just Eat told : “This issue has not been brought to the attention of Just Eat Ireland, through our courier or restaurant network. However we take the concerns of all couriers extremely seriously. Their welfare is important to us, and we welcome their feedback.
“Just Eat consistently engages with couriers through a number of channels, including regular pulse surveys, emails, chat function in the app while on a delivery, and offline messaging with courier support.”
A Deliveroo spokesperson added: “Deliveroo aims to provide riders with the flexible work riders tell us they value, attractive earning opportunities and protections. Rider retention rates are high and the overwhelming majority of riders tell us that they are satisfied working with us.
“We are pleased to also be able to offer riders free insurance, sickness cover, financial support when riders become new parents and a range of training opportunities.”
contacted Uber Eats for comment.
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