Labour Owned HCC Facing Allegations Of ‘Toxic Culture’

Responding to the news that Hybu Cig Cymru (HCC) faces allegations of a “toxic culture” following significant staff turnover, James Evans MS, Welsh Conservative Shadow Rural Affairs Minister, said:

“I am extremely concerned about the apparent toxic culture within the HCC. For a Government body that underpins an industry valued at over £1bn to Wales, this is a deeply worrying position to find itself in. It’s about time the Welsh Labour Government gave this body back to the industry – and create a fully independent meat marketing board for Wales, run by our farmers and processors who are elected to serve on the board by the industry themselves.”

Taken from Farmers Weekly:

‘Toxic culture’ allegations rock HCC amid staff exodus

© ITV News

Red meat levy Hybu Cig Cymru (Meat Promotion Wales) faces allegations of a “toxic culture” following significant staff turnover, with 13 of its 30 employees leaving in the past 18 months.

Claims of bullying, fear, and dishonesty within the organisation are set to be unveiled in S4C’s Y Byd ar Bedwar (The World on Four) programme, raising questions about its workplace environment and management practices.

Employees described a hostile atmosphere, with one stating: “Many members of staff are genuinely worried about working in the office. Some are in tears, fearing for their safety.”

Allegations centre on one individual accused of bullying behaviour, with complaints of belittling colleagues, overbearing supervision, and creating an intimidating workplace.

Six formal complaints were lodged, and an external investigation costing over £15,000 substantiated three of five allegations.

Despite these findings, the individual remains employed, prompting further dissatisfaction.

A staff member commented: “There is a feeling that there has been no punishment for the person responsible. Their behaviour hasn’t changed, leaving several staff members uncomfortable.”

The organisation employs roughly 30 staff members, but over the past 18 months, 13 employees have either left or are about to.

HCC defends actions

The organisation’s leadership defended its handling of the situation.

Well at the moment I am unsure how HCC can defend its handling of this situation but to have had to pay £15k after an external investigation I thought would have spoken for itself – and let’s bear in mind this is taxpayers’ money. Thirteen staff out of 30 leaving in the past 18 months is not a good recommendation for an employer. So I think HCC needs more of a shake up and I agree that the Welsh Labour Government put  this body back into the industry and create a fully independent meat marketing board for Wales, run by our farmers and processors who are elected to serve on the board by the industry themselves. That makes sense to me.