I refer to the article entitled “Labouring under an illusion” by Deepa Bhookhun which appeared  in your newspaper of even date and wish to bring the undermentioned clarifications.

2. Enquiries carried out by officers of my Ministry have revealed that

(i) R.E.A.L. Garments Ltd has respected the agreement made with the Bangledeshi workers to guarantee them the pay packet of Rs 8,500 ;

(ii) the only deductions which the Company made from the wages of the workers are in conformity with the relevant legislation. These deductions were in respect of the National Pension Fund, National Saving Fund and Training Levy Contribution and wages for 2 August on which they were on strike ;

(iii) no case whereby a worker has been paid only Rs 4,000 has been detected ;

(iv) the standard of cleanliness and hygiene of the lodging accommodations was found to be satisfactory ; and

(v) some discrepancies were, however, observed as regards the electrical installations for which the employer has been ordered to take remedial action.

3. I should be grateful if the above «mise au point» could be published in your esteemed newspaper and on the website of lexpress.mu with a view to setting the record straight.

S. Ragen

Permanent Secretary

Ministry of Labour