We are actively investigating 305 labour complaints lodged in relation to COVID-19 - Bala

The Minister for Employment, Parveen Bala says they are actively investigating 305 labour complaints lodged in relation to COVID-19, such as non-payment of statutory leave entitlements and other entitlements under the Employment Relations Act 2007.

Bala says the Ministry is ensuring that job losses are minimised and that all guarantees are made to workers including paid leave are fulfilled.

He says through its toll-free number 1535, their customer care centre has also received a total of 435 employment-related queries from workers and employers since it was launched on 29 January 2020.

Bala adds the Ministry has also been conducting health and hygiene awareness training, with 1,311 sessions completed at high-risk workplaces such as airports, seaports, hotels, markets, supermarkets, and banks.

Since the start of the year, the Ministry of Employment has conducted a total of 711 labour inspections, resulting in the successful recovery of $179,110.39 that has been directly paid out to the affected workers.