Log In

Reset Password
BERMUDA | RSS PODCAST

Government to look into Athletic Club concerns

Lovitta Foggo, the Minister of Labour, Community Affairs and Sport (File photograph)

“Workplace concerns” at a fitness centre are to be investigated by the Government.Lovitta Foggo, the Minister of Labour, Community Affairs and Sport, said the ministry was aware of complaints about a centre and would monitor the situation.Ms Foggo did not identify the gym, but it is understood to be The Athletic Club on Washington Street in Hamilton, which is due to close at the end of the month. The minister added that employers and employees should be aware that breaches of the Employment Act or other labour-related legislation were “not acceptable” and that the Labour Relations Section should be contacted if there were problems.Ms Foggo said: “The Labour Relations Section has the ability to investigate and mediate such complaints brought to its attention as well as refer unresolved disputes to an arbitration or tribunal panel for adjudication.” She added: “As a general note, the non-payment of wages is contrary to the Employment Act 2000. Employees who have concerns over late or non-payment of wages or benefits are strongly encouraged to contact the Labour Relations Section and consult with a Labour Relations Officer. “Employees are also reminded to review the Employment Act 2000, which sets out their rights and obligations.”Ms Foggo said that unionised workers should contact their shop stewards or union representatives with complaints and that employers could also use the Labour Relations Section if they needed to “make difficult decisions because of financial hardship”.She added: “We encourage anyone who may be facing challenges in the workplace to contact the Labour Relations Section so that we can assist where we can.”The Labour Relations Section can be contacted at 297-7714 or 297-7716.• On occasion The Royal Gazette may decide to not allow comments on what we consider to be a controversial or contentious story. As we are legally liable for any slanderous or defamatory comments made on our website, this move is for our protection as well as that of our readers.