A Human Rights Commission investigation into discrimination against Bermudians in the construction industry resulted in only one meritorious complaint.

According to the 2009 Report of the Human Rights Commission, released recently, an investigation was launched on December 17, 2008, as a result of numerous complaints from Bermudians that they had received “differential treatment” in the industry. The probe, which was reportedly aided by the Ontario Ombudsman, targeted at least half a dozen companies on the Island, investigating rate of pay, training, apprenticeship and line of progression for advancement.

However, the report said only a single case was proved to demonstrate a contravention of the Human Rights Act 1981.

The report said: “This case became a comprehensive investigation and a detailed report was presented to the Commission for deliberation after it was determined that the complaint was prima fascia, meritorious and warranted a full inquiry.

“Mediation was offered, but refused at the conclusion of the investigation process and the Commission therefore referred the case to the Minister of Culture and Social Rehabilitation to be considered by a Board of Inquiry.”

According to the report, four cases in total were reported to the Minister in 2009.