Cork food delivery riders stage work stoppage on Valentine’s Day

DELIVERY drivers went on strike in Cork city yesterday.

They joined other protesting Deliveroo, Just Eat, and Uber Eats delivery workers in Dublin, Britain, and the US, who turned off their apps between 5pm and 10pm yesterday evening — on Valentine’s Day.

The groups were protesting 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 Echo: “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.

“That is absurd,” he added.

People Before Profit-Solidarity TD Mick Barry expressed strong support for the food delivery workers.

Yesterday, Mr Barry said: "€1 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 workers’ action is a success.

“I hope there is strong public support for their stand.”

A spokesperson for Just Eat told The Echo: “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 said: “Deliveroo aims to provide riders with the flexible work riders tell us they value, attractive earning opportunities, and protections.

“Rider retention rates are high [within the company].

“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.”