THE EDITOR, Sir:
It is hoped that the new administration will take a serious, objective look at labour laws governing multi-national companies which operate in Jamaica, particularly the airline industry where I worked for approximately eight years.
These companies are welcomed by the Jamaican Government in their quest for them to contribute to the local economy. The local employees are treated unfairly, without respect and there is a high staff turnover that goes unnoticed. They are paid salaries way below normal, less than minimum wage in their home countries and are governed by both the law of the host country and the country where the company originates, whichever suits the company.
Unions are not allowed and the employees suffer considerably as a result and there is no mediation. Employees are made to feel like second-class citizens in Jamaica, as the company lets them know that they are dispensable, due to the high unemployment rate in Jamaica.
These companies have been getting away with treating personnel disgustingly and it is high time it is stopped.
I am, etc.,
IAMAJAMIACAN
Kingston 10
Via Go-Jamaica
