A leading trade union has called for legislation to be introduced to protect postmen and women from potential dog attacks.

The Communication Workers Union (CWU) has called on Scottish authorities to introduce new legislation to protect postmen and women from dog attacks.

Calls for the move have come after Glaswegian postman Thomas McGrath received major injuries after being attacked by two Japanese Akita dogs.

According to the CWU, more needs to be done to protect workers or else parcel delivery services across the country could be affected.

Dave Joyce, CWU national health and safety officer, said postal workers suffer up to 6,000 dog attacks annually.

He added that current dangerous dogs legislation "doesn't fully address the behaviour of irresponsible dog owners like in this case because attacks which occur on private property are not covered by the Act and that's got to change".

The CWU last week encouraged postal workers across the UK to take part in strikes against modernisation plans for Royal Mail.


Article Added: 23/07/2009 14:59:14