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The employer of a foreign domestic helper was sentenced to 80 hours' community service today (December 27) at Fanling Magistrates' Courts for underpaying wages to her helper. The prosecution was initiated by the Labour Department.
The employer failed to pay wages according to the minimum allowable wage of $3,580 as set out in the employment contract signed by both parties in 2008. The total amount underpaid was $25,300.
"Employers of foreign domestic helpers should not pay their helpers below the minimum allowable wage stipulated by the Government. Furthermore, employees, including foreign domestic helpers who are owed wages should promptly report to the Labour Department, assist in investigation and give evidence to protect their interests. The Labour Department does not tolerate wage offences and spares no effort in prosecuting employers who defy the law," a spokesperson for the Labour Department said.
The spokesperson urged employees who were owed wages to call to the department's complaints hotline on 2815 2200 immediately.
Ends/Thursday, December 27, 2012
Issued at HKT 14:47
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