In response to reports last week of child labor violations within the Michigan, Arkansas and North Carolina blueberry industries, United Fresh President and CEO Tom Stenzel has issued a statement urging members to ensure that such practices do not occur within their operations

"I am asking each of you [members] today to redouble your efforts to ensure that no young children are ever working illegally on our farms," said Stenzel. "I know you all have policies against illegal child labor, but it is our responsibility to make sure policies don't just sit in a binder somewhere but are being enforced every day.  It is our responsibility to meet with farm managers and field supervisors to reinforce the critical importance of these policies.  It is our responsibility to teach these rules to all workers who might not understand the importance of keeping children in school and out of harvest fields.  It is our responsibility to ensure total compliance with the law."

 For a full transcript of the letter, please click here.