Ministry ‘Monitoring’ Concerns At Fitness Centre

November 17, 2019

Minister of Labour, Community Affairs and Sports Lovitta Foggo advised that the Ministry “has been made aware of ongoing workplace concerns regarding a local fitness centre,” with the Minister noting that they are “monitoring the matter.”

While the Government’s statement did not name the fitness centre in question, the statement comes after what appeared to be a voice memo of a staff meeting at The Athletic Club circulated.  The gym, located in Hamilton, is due to close later this month after 35 years in business.

A Government spokesperson said, “Today the Minister of Labour, Community Affairs and Sports, the Hon. Lovitta Foggo JP, MP, advised that the Ministry has been made aware of ongoing workplace concerns regarding a local fitness centre.

“Minister Foggo notes that the Ministry is monitoring the matter.

“The Ministry wishes to remind employers and employees that contravening the Employment Act 2000 and other labour related legislation is not an acceptable practice, and employers and employees should contact the Labour Relations Section for assistance should the need arise.”

Minister 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.

“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.

“Employees within a unionized environment should contact their respective shop stewards and/or union representatives directly. Employers are also reminded that they too can use the Labour Relations Section as a resource when faced with having to make difficult decisions as a result of financial hardship.

“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.”

“Employees who have a grievance are encouraged to contact the Labour Relations Section on 297-7714/16 Monday – Friday, or visit their offices at 23 Parliament Street, Hamilton.”

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Comments (5)

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  1. imjustsaying says:

    They should have been monitored for the last 2 years.

  2. My opinion says:

    There are a lot of businesses that government should monitor. A major bank that is letting go all the local staff to fill the positions with work permits. The more Bermudians out of work seems to be best practice now.

  3. somuchless says:

    Albert for Pemier

  4. Willsee says:

    Government will now ”move “ into the room.

  5. Joe Bloggs says:

    “Minister of Labour, Community Affairs and Sports Lovitta Foggo advised that the Ministry “has been made aware of ongoing workplace concerns regarding a local fitness centre,”

    How very interesting. The Government will not respond to letters of complaint or even orders of the Supreme Court or Court of Appeal but it monitors concerns on social media. I guess that is the Government we voted for!