Minister: Labour/Employment Concerns
The Minister of Labour, Community Affairs and Sports Lovitta Foggo advised that the Ministry has “fielded a number of concerns from employers, workers and residents regarding layoffs, temporary work stoppages and pay deductions as a direct result of Covid-19.”
Minister Foggo said, “The Government of Bermuda understands the financial position of employers as it relates to the continued operation and profitability of their businesses during this time.
“As the Minister responsible for Labour, I will provide further information and instruction on how the Government of Bermuda will be assisting affected workers during this time on Monday, 23 March 2020.
“However, in light of this unfortunate event, I am encouraging employers and workers to contact the Labour Relations Section now, for advice and guidance on how best to move forward whilst remaining compliant with the Employment Act 2000.
“The Labour Relations Section provides information to employers and workers, on an anonymous basis in accordance with the Employment Act 2000 and the various labour legislation.
“The Labour Relations Section, as with many other Government Departments during this time, will remain open during normal business hours but will not be accepting clients in person.”
“A Labour Relations Officer will be available to address all queries and concerns via phone, Monday to Friday from 8:45am to 5:00pm and can be reached on 707-1593, 707-5444 and 707-5437.
“As a general public reminder for the latest health information associated with Covid-19, visit www.gov.bm/coronavirus.”
You can view all our coverage of the coronavirus Covid-19 pandemic here, our continuously updated live blog here and please recall to follow all guidance from the officials like washing your hands, adhering to self quarantine if relevant, and practicing social distancing!
The UK Government announced today that anyone who is unable to work because of Covid19, or has lost work will receive 80% of their salary.
That would include all residents including non-UK citizens.
Will you do that Minister Foggo?
Will the Govt be making good the salaries of those out of work like Britain did today?
The UK government is giving up to 80% of peoples’ wages who find themselves unemployed due to the virus.
PLP, what are you giving? Bet you guys are still collecting big cheques!
“Minister Foggo said, “The Government of Bermuda understands the financial position of employers as it relates to the continued operation and profitability of their businesses during this time.”
Minister Foggo wins the internet today.
How many years has Minister Foggo spent at the helm of a largish company answerable to shareholders? Look around the Cabinet that she serves in. How many have a long successful career behind them in business?
This is a time when Bermuda needs the proven ability of the most experienced & very brightest business people to lead.
Ar all Government employees still receiving full paychecks or will they share some of the pain people in the private sector are suffering? Surely this should be similar to when the OBA created furlough days. Use the savings to help the private sector.