Workers file case over unpaid salaries

Sixty-two workers yesterday complained to the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs saying they had not received salaries for the past four to six months.

Their employer, a marine engineering company, said they have informed the ministry that they will pay the dues.

Sources in the company said salaries had been delayed because their clients have not paid dues.

"The company has about Dh1.5 million in the market and our clients are delaying paying dues. The company was also severely affected by the Dubai Dry Dock accident. The insurance company is yet to compensate for the losses."

The company has offered workers half the amount, saying the remainder will be paid on January 24. The workers, however, have insisted on the full amount.

The company yesterday deposited the first installment and will today give the second. The ministry will distribute the money at 8.30am after which workers are supposed to resume work, said company sources.

Workers alleged that they had been cheated. They were promised a salary of Dh650 before they came to the UAE, which was four to six months ago.

But they are being paid just Dh400 and food, which was not good. Each also had to pay $1,200 to recruitment agencies. They claimed that work visas have not yet been stamped on their passports.

One worker claimed that they had complained to the labour office a month ago, but the problem was not solved.

Company sources said though the workers stopped work a month ago, the firm brought them in their vehicles to the labour office when they insisted on taking their salaries first.

The company added they provide good food, and stressed visas had not been stamped because of delays in formalities.