Stop turning a blind eye to exploitation

AKI Yamasaki writes of concerns relating to the exploitation of migrant labour (ODT, 7.9.18), pointing to its prevalence in many industries vital to our healthy economy.

Over a decade ago and home tutoring a young Indian woman in Christchurch, I arrived to find her husband at home, normally working at that time.

An experienced chef employed in a small Indian Restaurant, he had lost his job.

At the ready were a number of documents, of most concern a lawyer’s bill for approx $750, which he then had no means of paying.

It transpired that he had been working six days a week, up to three hours a day over the eight he was paid, and been allowed no breaks.

With some knowledge of New Zealand labour laws, he had previously approached the union for help and, after becoming a member, was directed to the lawyer, who had been unable to effect a change to his employment conditions.

Deciding to take matters into his own hands, five hours into his shift the previous evening and in the middle of servery he had downed utensils, informing his only companion in the kitchen, the wife of the owner, that he was taking his break.

A feisty verbal exchange ensued — he was instantly dismissed and given no holiday pay.

Almost immediately reemployed at a much larger Indian restaurant and comfortable with the eventual arrangement to pay $10 per week off a reduced account of $500, 12 months later and with the debt settled, he remained happily employed.

Too many blind eyes are still being turned on exploitative behaviours, now obviously rife and undeniably great for ‘‘the economy’’.

But at what human and financial cost to the victims? Nola Harris

Abbotsford ..................................

BIBLE READING: In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight. — Proverbs 3:6.