A company called Miniature Models Ltd based in Goodlands, Mauritius, has been liquidated, leaving around 60 workers, mostly women, in a state of uncertainty. The workers have been dedicated to the company for years, with some having served for over 40 years. They are now worried about receiving their unpaid salaries and benefits. The company's liquidation was announced recently, and the workers have been informed that they will be receiving letters of termination.
The workers of Miniature Models Ltd have expressed their concerns in an open letter to the company's director, stating that behind the company's closure are women, families, and disrupted lives. They claim that they have been experiencing financial difficulties due to delayed salary payments, with some workers having not received their salaries for months. The workers also mentioned that they have been doing extra work, including night shifts and physically demanding tasks, without adequate compensation.
According to Ashvin Gudday, a union representative, some workers have not received their salaries for August and September, and there are still outstanding payments for previous months. He stated that the company had recently informed the workers of its liquidation and that letters of termination had been handed out. Gudday advised the workers to register with the Bureau du Travail to benefit from the Workfare Programme, but the administrative process does not address the workers' immediate needs.
The workers of Miniature Models Ltd are not seeking special treatment but are demanding payment of their due salaries, compensation, and benefits. They also want clear answers about their future. In their letter, the workers emphasized that behind each worker is a mother, wife, sister, grandmother, and most importantly, a human being who deserves respect and justice.
The closure of Miniature Models Ltd has significant implications for the workers and their families, particularly during the approaching festive season. Some workers are struggling to finance their daily expenses and travel, and the uncertainty is taking a toll on their well-being. The union representative, Ashvin Gudday, stressed that finding a concrete solution for the workers is now a priority.
The workers of Miniature Models Ltd have been producing miniature models for export to Germany and other markets worldwide. They take pride in their work, which involves meticulously painting small figurines. However, their dedication and hard work have not been reciprocated with fair compensation and job security.
The situation of the Miniature Models Ltd workers highlights the challenges faced by workers in Mauritius who are often vulnerable to exploitation and unfair labor practices. The case underscores the need for stronger labor protections and support systems to ensure that workers receive their rights and benefits.
Key points
- The workers of Miniature Models Ltd are demanding payment of their due salaries, compensation, and benefits.
- The company's liquidation has left around 60 workers in uncertainty.
- The workers have been dedicated to the company for years, with some having served for over 40 years.
