New guide launched to make employees aware of their rights
A bid to make employees, especially work-permit holders, more aware of their rights has been launched by Jason Hayward, the Minister of Economy and Labour.
Mr Hayward said the new guide was needed due to a number of legal changes made in the past two years, which workers may not be aware of.
The explainer, A Guide To Working In Bermuda, deals with issues such as receiving a job offer, the rights of both employees and employers, and exiting a job.
It also covers potential employment flashpoint areas, such as lay-offs, vacation leave entitlement and severance pay.
Mr Hayward said: "Many employees in Bermuda, especially those on work permits seeking assistance from the Ministry of Economy and Labour and its departments, have admitted being unaware of their employee rights or where they could go for help.
"Over the past two years, the Ministry of Economy and Labour has made several amendments to Bermuda's employment and labour legislation to align it with international best practices.
"The value of employment legislation cannot be overstated. Employment legislation helps to stabilise our economy and increases the quality of life within our island by providing safe job opportunities.
"However, the legislation is of little value to society if it is not known.
“That is why the Ministry of Economy and Labour is keen to promote public awareness of Bermuda's Employment and Labour Code to employees, employers and the wider community.”
Mr Hayward called the guide “comprehensive and wide-ranging” in scope.
He stated: "Being aware of your rights and obligations is one of the most important things employees and employers can do.
“It helps prevent and resolve disputes regarding workplace entitlements and generates more reliable and productive working environments.
“This comprehensive and easy to understand overview of the laws governing working in Bermuda is a reference guide for the Government, agencies, employees, prospective employees and employers should they require assistance.”
The guide, which employers will have to provide work-permit holders with, is available online in the Labour Relations Office resources section at gov.bm.
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