The Ministry of Labour, Small and Micro Enterprise Development has issued a reminder to supermarket operators across Trinidad and Tobago to comply with national labour laws, following reports of breaches affecting workers’ rights.
In a release, the Ministry said it had received complaints from employees highlighting violations of the Minimum Wages Act. In response, Labour Inspectors will intensify monitoring and enforcement exercises at supermarkets where breaches are suspected.
Supermarket operators are being reminded that all employees must be hired in accordance with the law, with proper records maintained and statutory deductions made. Employers are also required to comply fully with the National Minimum Wage Order and National Insurance Act, including the payment of overtime and the remittance of mandatory contributions.
The Ministry emphasized that workers must be paid at or above the current national minimum wage of $20.50 per hour, equivalent to $164.00 per day, $820.00 per week, and $3,553.33 per month based on a 40-hour work week.
Employers are further required to provide workers with appropriate rest breaks, vacation leave, and maternity leave in keeping with labour regulations. These include:
- A one-hour break after five hours of work and an additional 15-minute rest period
- Two weeks’ vacation after 12 months of service, increasing to 14 working days after five years
- Paid maternity leave once the employee has served six months, with one month at full pay and two months at half pay
- Time off for medical visits
- Overtime pay for work beyond eight hours per day or 40 hours per week
- Special rates for work performed on public holidays
The Ministry also reminded employers of their obligations under the law to keep and retain wage and attendance records for at least three years, provide inspectors with requested information on workers’ terms and conditions, and allow inspectors to review records and interview employees.
Labour Inspectors, the release noted, remain committed to educating both employers and workers on their rights and obligations, monitoring workplaces, and investigating complaints to maintain good industrial relations practices throughout the country.