Road Town, Tortola - Minister for Natural Resources and Labour Honourable Omar W. Hodge, speaking at a press briefing on the passage of the New Labour Code early this week , said “This code will take care of everybody and everything is properly adjusted”.

Hon. Hodge expressed, “What we are seeking for is justice for both sides particularly the employees who have been ill treated for 35 years”. The Minister also further explained that he will proceed to have the minimum wage increased from $4.00 an hour as soon as possible because of the high cost of living in the territory.

Hon. Hodge went on to elaborate that the past Labour Code had nothing to defend workers, “The thought of labour is a powerful thought to defend people, but it had no teeth to bring justice to our people who work from dust till dawn in these different organisations”.

Labour Commissioner, Ms. Oleanvine Maynard also speaking at the press briefing stated that in the past when violations were made persons did not comply with the Labour Commissioner however in this new legislation the Labour Commissioner now has the powers to make persons adhere to the rulings that have been set forth.“We have different fines imbedded if they do not comply with the rulings that are made by the office of the Labour Commissioner”, Mrs. Maynard stated.

She added that, “The code is very easy for anyone to pick up, read and understand. The Labour Department will always be here to assist if anyone has questions they can always come or call we will be willing to sit down and explain the different clauses within the code.”

Labour Consultant and Attorney at Law Mr. Clive Pegus said during the press briefing that one way the code would provide sufficient deterrent to ensure compliance with its provision is, “the fines have been increased to bring them in line with the current economic reality”.

Additionally, Mr. Pegus explained that the code establishes a tribunal to settle disputes not resolved at the level of the Labour Commissioner and the Minister with responsibilities for labour and that the tribunal will comprise of a representative for employers, a representative for employees and an independent chairperson who would be an Attorney at Law of at least ten years standing.

The new Labour Code will be Government’s mechanism to address the Territory’s system of labour administration. Major areas addressed are retirement payments, different types of work permits available, gratuity, minimum standards of employment, discipline and termination, protection against victimization, protection of children and young persons, protection of pregnant employees, preference to Virgin Islanders and Belongers for employment, no discrimination in employment, safety and health, responsibilities and powers of the Labour Department, advisory committee and penalties.

The Ministry of Natural Resources and Labour and the Department of Labour anticipate that the new Labour Code will allow for the efficient management of the labour market and at the same time address the Territory’s need for migrant workers, while facilitating opportunities for British Virgin Islanders and Belongers.