February 25, 2009
"McDonald's must immediately stop shirking its legal obligation to compensate employee Nigel Haskett who was shot multiple times while defending a customer from violent assault. Mr. Haskett narrowly and miraculously survived the hail of bullets but must now contend with over $300,000 in medical bills because of McDonald's shameful evasion.
Becoming a victim of violent crime is a pervasive risk for retail and fast food workers. Employers have a legal obligation to take precautions to minimize the risk of violence on the job and to compensate employees who fall victim to violence. But instead of meeting its legal obligation and honoring the heroism of an employee who came to the aid of a customer in desperate need, McDonald's is concerned solely with its bottom line.
Nigel Haskett, at 22 years old, has undergone three abdominal surgeries and still carries part of a bullet in his back. McDonald's must immediately stop prolonging Mr. Haskett's suffering and compensate him in full."
Brandworkers International is a New York-based non-profit organization protecting and advancing the rights of retail and food employees.
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Background:
1. http://www.dailykos.com/story/2009/2/21/202227/973/431/700300
2. http://www.arktimes.com/Articles/ArticleViewer.aspx?ArticleID=bc6732a3-9...
3. http://anti-union.blogspot.com/2009/02/sign-petition-for-mcdonalds-hero....